Leningrad Siege Lifted After 900 Days
January 27th, 1944
January 27th, 1944
How Long Ago?
81 years, 1 month, 15 days ago
Location
Leningrad, Russia
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
World War II
People
- Joseph Stalin
- Leonid Govorov
- Vasily Chuikov
- Lazar Kaganovich
Links & References
Tags
Leningrad Siege Lifted After 900 Days
The Siege of Leningrad, a prolonged military blockade, ended when Soviet forces broke through the German encirclement, restoring supply lines to the city amidst severe hardships. The lifting of the siege marked a crucial turning point in World War II, demonstrating Soviet resilience against the Axis powers, and allowing the citizens to receive much-needed food and supplies after enduring extreme scarcity and harsh conditions for nearly two and a half years.
Siege lasted for 900 days, from 1941 to 1944.
Extreme famine and suffering plagued the population.
Soviet forces used Operation January Thunder to break the siege.
The event marked a significant turning point in WWII.
What Happened?
The Siege of Leningrad, which began in September 1941, was one of the longest and deadliest sieges in history. The city, known for its strategic military and economic significance, found itself encircled by German forces as they advanced during World War II. Over the following months, the residents faced catastrophic shortages of food and essential supplies, leading to immense suffering and a significant loss of life. By early 1944, Soviet troops launched Operation January Thunder, a series of coordinated assaults aimed at breaking the German blockade. With fierce fighting, Soviet forces successfully pushed back the encircling Army Group North, culminating in the breaking of the siege on January 27, 1944. This liberation was greeted with immense joy and relief by the citizens of Leningrad. The lifting of the siege allowed for the restoration of vital supply routes, and was symbolic of the broader turn in the war, bolstering Soviet morale. The end of the siege also facilitated the reconstruction of the city, which had suffered extensive damage during the blockade and subsequent fighting.
Why Does it Matter?
The lifting of the Siege of Leningrad is significant as it represented a major Soviet victory, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Soviet people against a formidable enemy. This event marked a shift in the momentum of World War II, highlighting the effectiveness of Soviet military strategies and boosting the morale of both military personnel and civilians. The siege became emblematic of Soviet hardship and fortitude, influencing post-war perceptions and narratives around the conflict.
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