Modern history has been indelibly shaped by World War II, and its importance cannot be overstated. Involving the vast majority of the globe’s nations, it was the deadliest conflict in human history, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
While World War II remains one of the most studied and talked-about historical fields, there’s so much to unpack that it seems like a truly endless subject. We’re here to break down every angle of the conflict.
Want to learn more about the Holocaust? Discover the courageous acts of Jewish resistance fighters, or the best nonfiction books, ranging from eyewitness accounts to sweeping historical studies of the genocide. Curious about the experience of soldiers? Dive into our military history coverage, including everything from the attack on Pearl Harbor and torpedo-fueled conflicts in the Pacific to the bravery of the Purple Heart Battalion, a segregated regiment of Japanese-Americans. Then there’s the question of women’s involvement in the war, from daring female spies to battlefield nurses to those who entered the workforce for the first time and held the economy together on the homefront.
Wherever your WWII interest lies, we have a story for you—and many more to come.
The trombone player and conductor led one of the most successful bands of his era before he vanished.
He witnessed the war unfold in real time—and shared it with the world.
By Kasey Noss
Discover December's best.
The 11-man crew of Heaven Can Wait was shot down by enemy fire.
The clandestine communication of the Navajo saved lives on the battlefield and was vital to success in the Pacific.
Author Maria Laurino recently appeared on 60 Minutes to discuss this devastating story.
By Kasey Noss
Discover unique illustrations, photographs, maps, and more.
Between 1943 and 1947, over 120 million specially-printed paperbacks were distributed to members of the armed forces.
By Kasey Noss
From firsthand accounts to comprehensive studies, these books about the Holocaust examine the tragedy.
A journey through Japan’s past and its enduring traditions.
The French Resistance listened to the BBC intently for signals. When they heard this poem, they knew D-Day was imminent.
If you're curious how the conflict played out in this region, you've come to the right place.
By Orrin Grey
“Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.”
A daring raid followed the Bataan Death March.
When it comes to World War II books, these are the ones that stand out.
By Orrin Grey
His new book focuses on the hunt for a Nazi U-boat.
Time to bulk up your summer reading list.
The largest seaborne invasion in history deserves some recognition.
This aviation program was 50% more expensive and just as important.