Light

Battle of Stalingrad

Definition

The Battle of Stalingrad (1942-1943) was a major confrontation during World War II where Nazi Germany and its allies fought the Soviet Union for control over the city of Stalingrad in Southern Russia. It is considered one of the bloodiest battles in history.

Analogy

Imagine two kids fighting over a toy to the point where they destroy it completely. That's similar to what happened at Stalingrad - both sides were so determined to win that they nearly destroyed the city.

Related terms

Joseph Stalin: He was serving as General Secretary of Communist Party during WWII and ordered Soviet forces to defend Stalingrad at all costs.

Operation Barbarossa: This was Nazi Germany’s invasion plan for Soviet Union which led them into battle at Stalingrad.

Red Army: The Red Army was the military force developed by Bolsheviks who came into power during Russian Revolution. They played a crucial role in defending Stalingrad against German forces.