A Short History of World War II, 1939-1945

A comprehensive and insightful history of the Second World War by an eminent military historian.

Ideal for readers of Antony Beevor, James Holland, James L. Stokesbury and B.H. Liddell Hart.

Written just twenty years after ‘Hitler’s War’ ended in Europe, this concise history of the Second World War examines the background to the conflict, the political and strategic decisions of wartime leaders, and the major campaigns and battles fought on land, at sea, and in the air which claimed its victims among soldiers and civilians alike.

Eminent military historian Peter Young has distilled from the mass of official histories, memoirs, and interpretations of the conflict a compact, coherent, highly readable account of the war. From Hitler’s blitzkrieg against Poland in the autumn of 1939 to Japan’s formal surrender on the deck of the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay six years later, the author gives a quite even chronicle of the course of events, providing an authoritative analysis of both the Allies and the Axis forces’ military manoeuvres, operational methods, and technological developments.

Along the way are vivid accounts of key campaigns, including the Battle of Britain, the North African campaign, German U-Boat operations and the war at sea, and the destruction of Pearl Harbor in 1941 and America’s entrance to the war.

A Short History of World War II 1939–1945 is an essential read for everyone interested in understanding more about how the first global conflict was fought and won.

“The writer has created an encyclopedic book that is concise, eminently readable and a fine contribution to military history. The prose marches meticulously forward like a formation of well-disciplined soldiers on parade.” — Milwaukee Journal

“Mr. Young writes clearly and well, and this is one of the better compact histories of the war.” — The New York Times

“Brigadier Young's book is more than a ready reference guide. The material has been culled from official documents, personal memoirs, and officer interpretation of the successes and failures of World War II. All the great historic figures appear at the height of their grandeur. Written by an eminent military historian, this is a highly readable account of military maneuvers, operational methods, and technological developments, with a separate chapter covering Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Good for contemporary history classes.” — Library Journal