World War II—fought between 1939
and 1945—was the most widespread
and deadly war in recorded history.
Beginning just 20 years after World War I,
three countries in particular aggressively
sought power: Germany, Italy, and Japan.
However, by the war’s end, most of the
world’s nations had fought with or against
this “Axis” coalition. Within these pages,
readers will gain insight to a war that
shifted world power in unexpected ways,
tested the mettle of soldier and civilian
alike, and cost the lives of millions upon
millions of people.