Operation Barbarossa

·    “It is probable that history will regard June 22, 1941, as the apocalyptic date of the military calendar. No military plan of the scope of Operation Barbarossa had ever before been launched, for never before had techniques of organization, transport, and communication been available on such a scale.” – Barry Pit

Operation Barbarossa was the code name for German's invasion of Russia. It has gone down in history as the largest military attack of World War 2. The Germans' plan almost succeeded. In fact they were able to move so quickly, that Russia almost collapsed after 17 days.

In Mein Kemp, Hitler talks about how Germans will need more living space. He mentioned that he would like to develop Russia (especially the Ukraine) into German territory. Still trusting Hitler, Joseph Stalin agreed to a non-aggression pact between Germany and The Soviet Union. Neither country was allowed to attack each other, but Hitler broke this promise.

“When the attack on Russia starts, the world will hold its breath.” - Adolf Hitler 

On June 22, 1941, Army Group North led by Von Leeb, Army Group Centre led by Von Bock, and Army Group South led by Von Rundstedt attacked Russia.
Russia's Baltic Special Military district led by Kuznetsov faced Army Group North, Western Special Military district led by Pavlov faced Army Group Centre, and The Odessa Special Military District led by Tyulenev  faced Army Group South

Hitler's strategy was to use Blitzkrieg. It was very effective, but did have its downfall. The invasion of Russia took longer than expected. When the 3 major cities still needed to be captured (Moscow, Stalingrad, and Leningrad), winter hit.The freezing cold temperatures did not allow the machines to work, and the German army had not clothes or supplies for the winter. Winter played a role in temporarily stopping the Germans.

·         Stalin’s strategy was to attack whenever possible, and make it as difficult for the Germans as possible to win. He even ordered soldiers to destroy Nazi weapons right before surrendering.

 

BBC documentary clip on the formation of Operation Barbarossa