What Happened This Year 1945

Historical Events from This Year 1945

Military & Warfare

Soviet Forces Attack German High Command at Zossen

April 21st, 1945 79 years ago

Soviet forces launched a strategic attack on Zossen, where the German High Command was located, in an attempt to disrupt the leadership of the Nazi regime. The operation was part of the larger offensive to encircle Berlin as WWII neared its conclusion in Europe. This assault showcased the increasing pressure on German defenses as Soviet troops advanced from the east.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Prisoners Revolt at Jasenovac Concentration Camp

April 22nd, 1945 79 years ago

On April 22, a revolt occurred at the Jasenovac concentration camp in Croatia, where approximately 600 prisoners attempted to escape. The uprising was met with brutal force, resulting in the deaths of 520 inmates while about 80 managed to flee. The prisoners sought to gain their freedom as the war drew to a close, hoping to escape the horrors of the camp.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Liberation of Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

April 22nd, 1945 79 years ago

Sachsenhausen concentration camp was liberated by soldiers of the Red Army and the Polish First Army. This military action occurred during the closing days of World War II in Europe and marked a significant turn in the liberation of Nazi concentration camps. Thousands of prisoners were found in desperate condition, revealing the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime. The liberation was part of a broader offensive by Allied forces to end Nazi rule across Germany.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Hermann Göring Seeks Leadership of Nazi Germany

April 23rd, 1945 79 years ago

As Nazi Germany faced imminent defeat in April 1945, Hermann Göring sent a telegram to Adolf Hitler, requesting permission to assume leadership of the faltering regime. Unbeknownst to Göring, his move was perceived as treasonous. Martin Bormann and Joseph Goebbels, high-ranking officials in the Nazi hierarchy, counseled against Göring’s overture, bringing to light the divisions within the upper echelons of the Nazi government as its collapse became evident.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Final Retreat of German Forces in Lapland

April 25th, 1945 79 years ago

The last German troops retreated from Finnish territory in Lapland, marking the end of the Lapland War. This conflict was fought between Finland and Germany from 1944 to 1945, as Finland sought to expel German forces who were stationed within its borders following the end of the Continuation War. The retreat concluded a series of military operations and signaled a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of Northern Europe, particularly as World War II was approaching its conclusion in other regions.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Founding Negotiations for the United Nations Begin

April 25th, 1945 79 years ago

Delegates from 50 nations gathered in San Francisco to establish the United Nations, marking a crucial step in international diplomacy. The conference aimed to create a global organization that would prevent future conflicts and promote peace. Key discussions focused on the structure and function of this new entity, emphasizing cooperation among nations. The event was pivotal in addressing the devastation of World War II and sought a lasting framework for international relations.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

US and Soviet Troops Meet at Elbe River

April 25th, 1945 79 years ago

In a significant military encounter, United States and Soviet reconnaissance troops met on the banks of the Elbe River, near the towns of Torgau and Strehla. This meeting represented a coordinated effort to bleed the Wehrmacht of Nazi Germany by effectively splitting their forces in two. The convergence marked the culmination of weeks of advances towards a common objective. As troops from both nations reached the Elbe, a sense of collaboration emerged amidst the chaotic backdrop of World War II, symbolizing a hopeful shift in the war's tide.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

General Uprising Against German Occupation

April 25th, 1945 79 years ago

The National Liberation Committee for Northern Italy called for a widespread uprising against the German forces occupying Italy and the Italian Social Republic in April. This rallying cry was crucial in mobilizing various resistance groups within the country. The appeal was made to the Italian populace to rise against both the occupying German troops and the oppressive fascist regime that was controlling parts of Italy, aiming to restore freedom and democracy.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Baguio Liberated by Filipino and American Troops

April 26th, 1945 79 years ago

The liberation of Baguio, a key city in the Philippines, was achieved through the combined efforts of Filipino troops from the 66th Infantry Regiment and American forces from the 33rd and 37th Infantry Divisions. Under the command of General Tomoyuki Yamashita, Japanese forces were engaged in fierce combat as the allied forces advanced, leading to the critical liberation of this strategic area. The operation showcased the resilience and determination of both Filipino and American soldiers as they fought to reclaim Baguio from Japanese occupation.

Continue Reading