The bombing of Lübeck was a pivotal operation carried out by the British Royal Air Force's Bomber Command during World War II. Targets were selected not only for their military significance but also to impact civilian morale. Lübeck, a picturesque Hanseatic city in northern Germany, was chosen due to its industrial capabilities, particularly shipbuilding and its significance as a historical trading center. The raid involved more than 250 aircraft, primarily Avro Lancasters and Handley Page Halifaxes, which departed from bases in England. The operation was intended to demonstrate that the British could reach into the heart of Germany, despite previous setbacks in bomber campaigns.

The raid, which took place overnight, led to the destruction of a significant part of the city's medieval architecture, including the St. Mary's Church and several residential areas. The attack resulted in the loss of numerous lives and significant material damage. Not only did the operation achieve physical destruction, but it also signaled a turning point in the Bomber Command's strategy and broader efforts against the Luftwaffe, breaking the psychological barrier of German cities being considered safe from attack.

In a broader context, the bombing of Lübeck ushered in a series of similar raids across Germany, changing the nature of warfare from traditional battlefield engagements to aggressive bombing campaigns targeting urban centers. This shift in strategy laid the groundwork for the extensive bombing campaigns that would follow, highlighting the evolving nature of aerial warfare during the conflict.