What Happened This Year 1945

Historical Events from This Year 1945

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.

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Politics & Government

Benito Mussolini Arrested by Italian Partisans

April 27th, 1945 79 years ago

Benito Mussolini was arrested by Italian partisans on April 27, 1945, in Dongo as he attempted to flee to Switzerland disguised as a German soldier. He traveled with Clara Petacci, hoping to evade capture amidst the chaos of World War II. The partisans recognized him, marking a significant turn in the conflict in Italy, where loyalty to Mussolini had dwindled. His disguise proved futile as the war closed in on the fascist regime.

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Military & Warfare

Final German Withdrawal from Finland

April 27th, 1945 79 years ago

The last German military formations withdrew from Finland to Norway, marking the end of the Lapland War and subsequently concluding World War II in Finland. This military operation involved significant skirmishes between Finnish and German forces as Finnish troops sought to expel the Germans from their territory. The notable photograph titled 'Raising the Flag on the Three-Country Cairn' encapsulated the moment, symbolizing the return of peace to the region and the resolve of Finnish soldiers.

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Politics & Government

Execution of Mussolini and Clara Petacci

April 28th, 1945 79 years ago

Benito Mussolini and Clara Petacci were shot dead by Walter Audisio, a member of the Italian resistance, as they attempted to flee Italy. The execution occurred near the village of Giulino di Mezzegra, where they were intercepted by partisans. Their deaths marked a significant moment in Italian history, symbolizing the end of Fascist rule. They were subsequently displayed in a public square in Milan, highlighting the swift retribution against fascism.

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Politics & Government

Final Execution of Austrian Leaders at Mauthausen

April 28th, 1945 79 years ago

In Mauthausen concentration camp, 33 socialist and communist leaders from Upper Austria were exterminated using gas chambers by Nazi Germany forces. This mass execution marked one of the last uses of gas chambers as the Nazi regime faced imminent defeat in World War II. The victims, targeted for their political beliefs, were part of a larger crackdown on dissent as the regime sought to eliminate any opposition still present in their territories.

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Politics & Government

Hitler Marries Eva Braun in Berlin Bunker

April 29th, 1945 79 years ago

Adolf Hitler married Eva Braun in a private ceremony in his Berlin bunker. The marriage took place just one day before their deaths, marking a significant moment in their tumultuous relationship. The ceremony was attended by close associates, and Hitler also named Admiral Karl Dönitz as his successor, signifying his planned leadership transition in the imminent aftermath of the war.

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Military & Warfare

German Forces in Italy Surrender at Caserta

April 29th, 1945 79 years ago

The surrender of German forces in Italy was signed by General Heinrich von Vietinghoff, marking a pivotal moment in World War II. It occurred at Caserta, near Naples, where the region was heavily contested. The agreement outlined the unconditional surrender of German troops in Italy to the Allied forces, led by General Mark Clark. This surrender came as the Allies advanced through Italy and toward the Austrian border, effectively diminishing German military presence in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Food Airdrops Over Occupied Netherlands

April 29th, 1945 79 years ago

Airdrops of food began in German-occupied regions of the Netherlands as hunger intensified for civilians caught in the war. Organized efforts by the Allies aimed to alleviate suffering from severe food shortages. A significant airdrop operation took place over various cities, providing much-needed supplies. This initiative represented a coordinated humanitarian response amidst the backdrop of World War II.

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Military & Warfare

Liberation of Dachau Concentration Camp

April 29th, 1945 79 years ago

United States troops liberated the Dachau concentration camp, which had been one of the first Nazi concentration camps established in Germany. Upon entering the camp, soldiers encountered thousands of emaciated prisoners and evidence of the horrific conditions endured by the detainees. Dachau was initially opened in 1933 and became a model for other concentration camps. The liberation took place during the waning days of World War II in Europe, signifying a monumental moment in the fight against Nazism as Allied forces advanced towards Nazi Germany.

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