World War 2 Battles Map by Gabriela Delgado

Bataan Death March

105357410 — 2024-04-29 17:17:48 UTC

A few hours after bombing Pearl Harbor, the Japanese attacked the Philippines. They were outnumbered and they held out for as long as they could. On April 9, 1942 they finally surrendered and 78,000 prisoners were forced to march 65 miles to a Japanese prison camp. Almost 10,000 soldiers died on this march. The significance of this battle was to show the severity of the battle and turn the public against Japan.

Battle of Coral Sea

105357410 — 2024-04-29 17:27:18 UTC

Japan believed they could launch two attacks simultaneously; however, a team of code-breakers based in Hawaii broke the Japanese code for operating operations. In March, the United States was informed of this attack and both sides launched air attacks against one another. Although Japan dealt some hefty damage to the United States, they managed to intercept their attack on New Guinea. This event was important as it was the first carrier-vs-carrier battle, and marked the new start of naval warfare, alongside airplanes.

battle of midway

105357410 — 2024-04-30 18:38:52 UTC

Americans rejoiced after sending bombs to Japan, but Japan was planning their next step. They disagreed about whether to attack New Guinea or Midway island next; however, they did move towards Midway as an attempt to cut off American supply lines to Australia. Japan sent three aircraft carriers to complete this mission and the United States managed to intercept this attack. This is significant as it was a turning point in the war in the Pacific, as they destroyed Japan's first-line carrier and most of their best pilots.

Battle of the Atlantic

105357410 — 2024-04-30 18:48:26 UTC

After Germany declared war on the United States they targeted cargo ships in American coastal waters. Germany had sunk about 360 ships and oil tankers by August of 1942, resulting in rationing of oil and gasoline. In order to keep the oil flowing the government built its first long-distance pipeline. In May and June of 1942 more than 1.2 million tons of shipping were sunk, yet American/British shipyards built 1.2 million tons of new shipping. Afterwards, American and British warplanes and warships began to use new technology in order to locate and attack German submarines, resulting in the significance of turning the battle of the Atlantic in favor of the Allies.

Battle of Guadalcanal

105357410 — 2024-05-01 16:49:44 UTC

The Battle of Guadalcanal was between Japan and the United States and took place in the Solomon islands. This battle had marked the first since the United States had gone on the offensive and attacked Japan. This battle was to gain control of Guadalcanal and the various resources it contained such as its airfield. The battle cost both the Allies and Japan many men, aircraft and ships; however, with each island that the United States gained control over they got closer to Japan. The U.S. grew power over the sea, air and manpower. This is significant as it allowed the Allies to gain advantage over the Axis Powers.

Battle of Leyte Gulf

105357410 — 2024-05-01 17:04:53 UTC

This was the largest naval battle near the Philippine islands between the combined forces of the United States and Australia versus the Japanese Navy. Japan had fewer ships compared to the Allies, but still launched everything they could in order to defeat the Allies. The battle itself can be divided into four separate engagements, such as the Battle of the Sibuyan Sea, Surigao Sea, Cape Engano, and Battle of Samar. This battle was significant as Japan suffered the greatest loss and it ended their ability to fight as an organized force.

operation torch

105357410 — 2024-05-01 17:25:02 UTC

Operation Torch was an Allied Invasion in order to win the battle in North Africa while continuing the fight against Germany and Italy. In addition, the Allies organized three attacks against the ports in Casablanca, Oran, and Algiers, once they succeeded they could move toward Tunisia.

Battle of Bloody Anzio

105357410 — 2024-05-02 17:44:21 UTC

To break down the German defenses along the Gustav line the Allies launched both an air and naval attack, which led to the success of taking Rome from the Germans; however, it was poorly executed and many died after being pinned down on the beach by a stronger German army. This was significant as the forces the Germans could have used for invading the Soviet Union were placed at this battle instead, therefore delaying the attack.

d-day invasion

105357410 — 2024-05-02 17:49:22 UTC

Allied forces launched air, land and naval attacks on Normandy beach to free North-West Europe from the Nazi's. This was the largest amphibious attack throughout World War 2 and it pushed the Axis powers back which can lead to the significance of victory for this war, as it helped Germany realize they needed to surrender and could not win.

Battle of the Bulge

105357410 — 2024-05-02 17:55:06 UTC

The Battle of the Bulge was Hitler's last offensive towards the Allies on the Western Front, which lasted six weeks. This battle showed the commitment and perseverance of the Allies, as they were outnumbered yet continued to fight. This persistence led to victory as the Allies attacked the sidelines and eventually reached the front of the bulge. They maneuvered around being outnumbered and this is significant as they were able to deny Hitler's last chance at victory.

Battle of Iwo Jima

105357410 — 2024-05-02 18:00:57 UTC

The Battle of Iwo Jima was between the United States and Japan, which was also known as the bloodiest battle since the American casualties exceeded the Japanese. The U.S. Marines attempted to invade Iwo Jima after months of naval and air bombardment and the Japanese were dug deep into bunkers within the volcanic rocks. Although the U.S. managed to win through support from the navy and army. This was a turning point as the U.S. was able to use Iwo Jima as a base for launching air raids in Japan and helped bring the war to a close.

Battle of Okinawa

105357410 — 2024-05-03 00:08:06 UTC

The battle of Okinawa was between the U.S. and Japan and they were fighting to create an airbase within the area. From Okinawa the United States could increase air attacks on Japan, but the Japanese put up a very long fight. It was known as one of the deadliest battles as many kamikaze attacks were unleashed, from that battle over 49,000 casualties including over 12,500 men missing or killed were counted. Many civilians in Okinawa were caught in the bombings as well and unfortunately died. It was a fight that stretched for three months, but they succeeded in taking over Okinawa and used it as an airbase, which provided a push in breaking down Japans forces.