THE BATTLE OF STALINGRAD
hISTORY
Prerequisites and preparation:
In 1942, Germany shifted some forces to the southern front to capture the resource-rich Caucasus and to control the strategically important city of Stalingrad. This city was a crucial transportation hub and industrial zone, and its capture would have strategic significance for the enemy.
A decision was made to launch an attack on Stalingrad with the aim of encircling Soviet troops and capturing the city.
Start of the operation:
In August 1942, German troops launched an offensive. Simultaneously, intense aerial bombings of the city began, leading to significant destruction and losses among the population and the garrison.
Defense and street fighting: Soviet troops under the command of General-Colonel Vasily Chuikov, as well as Marshal Georgy Zhukov, participated in fierce street battles. The city was turning into ruins, and the fighting became very brutal.
Soviet counteroffensive: By February 1943, Soviet forces launched a large-scale counterattack. During street battles, Soviet artillery, tanks, and infantry gradually pushed the Germans out of the city.
Enemy's surrender: By February 2, 1943, German troops surrendered. The losses of both sides were enormous: according to various sources, about 2 million people were killed and wounded, and significant parts of the German army were destroyed.
Consequences and significance:
The victory at the Battle of Stalingrad became a turning point in the war. It shattered the enemy's morale and demonstrated that the Soviet army was capable of steadfast resistance.
After Stalingrad, the Soviet Union launched a large-scale offensive, and the enemy began to retreat on all fronts.
This battle strengthened faith in victory and boosted the fighting spirit of the Soviet people.
In 1942, Germany shifted some forces to the southern front to capture the resource-rich Caucasus and to control the strategically important city of Stalingrad. This city was a crucial transportation hub and industrial zone, and its capture would have strategic significance for the enemy.
A decision was made to launch an attack on Stalingrad with the aim of encircling Soviet troops and capturing the city.
Start of the operation:
In August 1942, German troops launched an offensive. Simultaneously, intense aerial bombings of the city began, leading to significant destruction and losses among the population and the garrison.
Defense and street fighting: Soviet troops under the command of General-Colonel Vasily Chuikov, as well as Marshal Georgy Zhukov, participated in fierce street battles. The city was turning into ruins, and the fighting became very brutal.
Soviet counteroffensive: By February 1943, Soviet forces launched a large-scale counterattack. During street battles, Soviet artillery, tanks, and infantry gradually pushed the Germans out of the city.
Enemy's surrender: By February 2, 1943, German troops surrendered. The losses of both sides were enormous: according to various sources, about 2 million people were killed and wounded, and significant parts of the German army were destroyed.
Consequences and significance:
The victory at the Battle of Stalingrad became a turning point in the war. It shattered the enemy's morale and demonstrated that the Soviet army was capable of steadfast resistance.
After Stalingrad, the Soviet Union launched a large-scale offensive, and the enemy began to retreat on all fronts.
This battle strengthened faith in victory and boosted the fighting spirit of the Soviet people.
The Battle of Stalingrad is considered one of the largest and bloodiest in history. It became a symbol of resilience, courage, and the invincibility of the Soviet people. The victory over the Fascists at Stalingrad was an important step towards the ultimate victory in the Great Patriotic War and World War II.
GALLERY
