World War 2 a conflict that made the world what it is today, a conflict that is forever remembered for the destruction that it caused, as well as the violent ideologies that helped fuel that conflict. This was a time in human history when we did not quite understand the extremes that our species was quite capable of, and with the way the war ended, the world has never quite been the same since. The war had the involvement of every part of the world, with over 100 million soldiers deployed, making it the most violent and destructive conflict in history. Many nations and their leaders were involved, and the conflict was fought as much politically as it was militarily and strategically. Many great soldiers answered the call of duty and fought in the war, and there are many memoirs written by such brave men and women who fought to prevent the rise of evil in the world.
World War 2 And What Led To The Conflict
Why Wars Happen
Without discussing the history of a conflict, we are doomed to ultimately repeat it. The sad reality is that conflicts occur as a result of nations disagreeing and fighting over resources, land, nationalist propaganda that makes a nation empowered, and ideologies that push for violence against others. War is an unfortunate reality of humanity, but if we understand its root cause, it is possible to make peace eventually and let it go.
A Brief History Of World War 2
World War 2 began as a result of Nazi Germany and its allies (Axis) led by Adolph Hitler invading Poland on September 1939, this led to the UK and France declaring war on Germany, and after Hitler invaded France and annexed it, Nazi Germany invaded the USSR, eventually one of the allies of Nazi Germany, Japan invaded Pearl Harbor which was US territory, and this also brought in the US with the Allies and thus fighting a two-front war, Nazi Germany eventually lost the war and was divided between the Allies and the USSR.
World War 2 Biographies: The Greatest Generation
The generation that came of age during the great depression and fought during World War 2 was known as the greatest generation. This was due to their resilience, perseverance, stoicism, frugality, and commitment to serve. It is also the generation that shaped post-war America, and so many of the best World War 2 biographies are about people who were part of this generation.
What’s Beyond The Horizon: My 34 Years of Naval Service By Wayne Wright
This memoir, written by Lieutenant Commander Wayne Wright, USN Retired, discusses his time during World War 2, and it stands out as one of the most powerful post-World War 2 biographies. Wayne Wright served aboard many different ships of the US Navy, many of which had served during World War 2 and Korea. These ships would provide the backdrop for his experience and how the US Navy essentially saved his life.
Helmet for My Pillow By Robert Leckie
This book tells the story of World War 2, United States Marine Corps veteran and historian Robert Leckie. The book discusses his time enlisting in the USMC after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and serving in Guadalcanal, which was one of the most fierce campaigns fought by the USMC during World War 2. He wanted to write the book because he wanted to tell the story of how the war really was and wanted to give the conflict the respect that it deserved.
With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa By Eugene Sledge
This book tells the story of United States Marine Eugene Sledge, who fought in the battles of Peleliu and Okinawa. One of the best World War 2 biographies you’ll ever this book is written from notes written by the man while he was carrying a pocket bible during Peleliu and Okinawa.
The Splendid and the Vile By Erik Larson
This World War 2 biography is of Winston Churchill during his first year as prime minister of the UK during World War 2. In the first year of his taking office, he was tested greatly during the Blitz, which was a heavy sustained bombing campaign where the German airforce known as the Luftwaffe bombed industrial cities in the UK, beginning with London.
Conclusion
We hope that you were able to gain something of value from reading these World War 2 biographies. The stories of the people who served should inspire you.