Invasion of Poland

Definition

The Invasion of Poland, which began on September 1, 1939, was the military campaign launched by Nazi Germany that marked the official start of World War II. This invasion quickly overwhelmed Polish defenses through a combination of blitzkrieg tactics, which emphasized speed and surprise, and led to the swift occupation of Poland. The invasion was also notable for its coordinated effort with the Soviet Union, which invaded from the east on September 17, 1939, under the terms of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Invasion of Poland involved approximately 1.5 million German troops and was executed within a matter of weeks, with Warsaw falling on September 27, 1939.
2. Poland's defense was severely hampered by its lack of modern equipment and the overwhelming numerical and tactical superiority of the German forces.
3. The invasion resulted in the division of Poland between Germany and the Soviet Union, leading to severe consequences for the Polish population, including mass deportations and atrocities committed against civilians.
4. This invasion prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany on September 3, 1939, marking their official entry into World War II.
5. The swift success of the invasion demonstrated the effectiveness of blitzkrieg tactics, setting a precedent for future military operations by Nazi Germany in Western Europe.

Review Questions

• How did the tactics used in the Invasion of Poland demonstrate a shift in military strategy during World War II?
  • The Invasion of Poland showcased a significant shift in military strategy with the introduction of blitzkrieg tactics, which combined rapid movement with coordinated air support and mechanized infantry. This approach allowed German forces to penetrate Polish defenses swiftly and efficiently, contrasting sharply with previous static warfare methods seen in World War I. The success of these tactics highlighted their effectiveness and set a new standard for future military campaigns throughout the war.
• Discuss the implications of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact on the Invasion of Poland and its subsequent impact on Europe.
  • The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact had profound implications for the Invasion of Poland as it allowed Germany to invade without fear of Soviet intervention initially. This agreement not only facilitated a coordinated attack but also ensured that Poland would be divided between the two powers after its fall. The occupation led to increased tensions across Europe, contributing to a climate where alliances were tested and reshaped as countries prepared for an escalating conflict.
• Evaluate how the outcomes of the Invasion of Poland influenced subsequent military engagements in World War II.
  • The outcomes of the Invasion of Poland significantly influenced subsequent military engagements by demonstrating the effectiveness of rapid offensive operations using blitzkrieg tactics. Following this successful invasion, other nations observed how Germany leveraged speed and surprise, prompting them to adapt their strategies in response. The swift defeat of Poland not only emboldened Germany but also led to a re-evaluation of military preparedness among other nations, shaping their responses in later campaigns across Europe.

Related terms

Blitzkrieg:

A military strategy developed by Germany characterized by rapid and overwhelming attacks using combined arms forces, including air support and fast-moving ground troops.

Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact:

A non-aggression treaty signed between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union in August 1939, which included secret protocols dividing Eastern Europe into spheres of influence.

Danzig Corridor: A strip of land that separated East Prussia from the rest of Germany and was a key territorial issue leading to the invasion of Poland, as it contained the free city of Danzig.