The War in Europe
Turning Points in Europe
The Allied Powers comprised of the United States, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union, struggled to deal with Germany’s military since the start of the war. Even though Hitler’s invasion of Russia was grinding to a halt because of freezing cold temperatures, the German military had conquered a large amount of territory. As the German military threatened to cut off the oil supply from the Middle East by advancing through North Africa, the situation for the allied countries became grim. Three turning points occurred during the war: the Battle of El Alamein, the siege at Stalingrad, and the invasion of Normandy. In this interactivity, learn about the three major turning points of World War II. Click the player button to begin.
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Landing at Omaha Beach: D-Day
The United States and the Allies stormed the beaches at Normandy, France on June 6, 1944. During this invasion more than 150,000 troops invaded Europe on their way to end World War II. Watch Landing at Omaha Beach: D-Day from eMediaVASM to learn about the invasion of Normandy. While you are watching the video clip, think about what it must have been like to be one of the soldiers involved in this operation.
Minority Contributions in Europe
At the start of World War II, the United States military remained segregated. African Americans could serve in segregated units that were assigned non-combat jobs. As the war progressed, African Americans demanded the right to serve in combat and were granted some opportunities. Japanese Americans also earned the right to fight, and were allowed to participate in the European theatre of war. In this interactivity, learn about the roles minorities played in the European Theatre of World War II. Click the player button to begin.
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Tuskegee Airmen Experiences in World War II
The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African Americans to fly planes in the United States military. This group of soldiers protected bombers from German attack. The Tuskegee Airmen were considered among the best fighter pilots in the United States military. Watch Tuskegee Airmen Experiences in World War II from eMediaVASMto learn about this skilled group of pilots. While you are watching this video clip, think of what it must have been like to fight for the United States after facing severe discrimination and the Jim Crow laws of the South.
The War in Europe Review
Now that you have completed your investigation of the war in Europe, review your knowledge in this non-graded interactivity. Click the player button to get started.