What was the Battle of Berlin?
The Battle of Berlin, fought from April 16 to May 2, 1945, between the Soviet Union and Polish allied forces against Nazi Germany, was the final major offensive within the European theater. During the battle, the Soviet Union launched an assault on Berlin, invading from the East. They surrounded the city and began a nonstop artillery bombardment on the streets, leading to Hitler's suicide on April 30 and the defeat of Nazi Germany.
The Battle of Berlin was fought between 2.5 million Soviet Red Army troops and 45,000 regular Army and Waffen-SS troops inside Berlin, along with 40,000 poorly trained local militia members, older men, and young boys who were pressed into service alongside the Berlin police.
Because Germany was heavily outnumbered, they were pushed back as their defense attempt failed and as Soviet troops overtook the city center of Berlin.
By the end of the battle on May 2, 1945, approximately 360,000 Soviet casualties were counted, while approximately 800,000 troops were counted for Nazi Germany's forces, along with Hitler committing suicide in his bunker on April 30, 1945.
By April 24 to 25, 1945, Berlin was surrounded by the USSR. After his death, the German garrison began to surrender, and on May 2, Germany surrendered.
Up until November 9, 1989, Berlin was divided by the Berlin Wall, separating the city into East and West.
In 1948, the Soviet Union cut off all land and water routes into West Berlin to force Western Allies out.
Overall, the Battle of Berlin led to the collapse of the Third Reich and was the final offensive of World War II in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How did the Battle of Berlin end?
Adolf Hitler committed suicide in his underground bunker on April 30, 1945, and the German garrison in Berlin surrendered to the Soviets on May 2, 1945.
2) Who fought in the Battle of Berlin?
The Soviet Red Army's 2.5 million soldiers under Georgy Zhukov and Ivan Konev fought German military forces, local police, and old men and young boys in the Volkssturm and Hitler Youth.
3) When did Berlin surrender?
They surrendered on May 2, 1945.
Why it matters
The Battle of Berlin caused Nazi Germany to disintegrate, Berlin to fall to the Soviet Union, and put an end to the European theater.
Sources
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