The Siege of Leningrad commenced as German Army Group North launched a brutal offensive against the city in the summer of 1941. Leningrad, a key cultural and industrial center in the Soviet Union, was of vital importance to the Germans, who sought to cut off supply lines and weaken Soviet morale. Hitler aimed for a swift victory, believing that capturing the city would deal a devastating blow to Soviet resistance. In the ensuing days, Leningrad's defenses were tested as German forces surrounded the city, cutting off all land routes and initiating a blockade.

The siege was marked by severe shortages of food and supplies, leading to widespread hunger and suffering among the civilian population. The Soviets, under the leadership of military commanders, organized an effective defense, even as they faced overwhelming odds. Residents of Leningrad adapted to the dire circumstances; many were forced to resort to extreme measures, including rationing food and finding alternative resources to survive. The Red Army conducted several counteroffensives during the siege, with troops attempting to break through the German encirclement at various points, but initial efforts were met with limited success.

Moreover, the siege escalated into one of the most harrowing episodes of World War II, with thousands of civilians and soldiers perishing from starvation, bombardment, and cold temperatures during the harsh winters. Despite suffering significant losses and hardship, the spirit of the Leningraders remained resilient. They engaged in cultural activities to maintain morale, and the city's defense became a symbol of Soviet tenacity. Eventually, the siege would last until January 1944 when Soviet forces successfully liberated the city, marking a significant turning point in the war on the Eastern Front.