timeline of major events of World War 2

September 1, 1939

Germany Invades Poland, Starting World War 2

Germany invaded Poland starting World War 2 in Europe. Britain and France declare war on Germany in response.

September 17, 1939

Soviet Union Invades Poland

The Soviet Union invaded Poland from the east in accordance with the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. Poland was divided between Germany and the Soviet Union.

May 10, 1940

Germany Invades France and the Low Countries

Germany invaded France, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands starting the Battle of France. British and French armies were pushed back to Dunkirk for evacuation.