TASK 1: DEVELOPING A HISTORICAL QUESTION
Part A
Historical Question: What were the primary factors that led to the conclusion of World War II in 1945?
Part B
This question fits the criteria of a good historical question because it is open-ended and encourages exploration of various perspectives. It allows for an examination of multiple factors such as military strategies, economic pressures, political alliances, and social impacts, prompting a deeper understanding of the world events that culminated in the end of the conflict. By focusing on "why," it invites analysis rather than a simple narrative.
TASK 2: GATHERING SOURCES AND WRITING AN INTRODUCTION
Part A
Thesis Statement: The conclusion of World War II in 1945 was primarily influenced by military successes of the Allied Forces, the devastating impact of the atomic bomb on Japan, and the collapse of Axis powers, which combined to create an unmanageable situation for the remaining resistance.
Part B
- McMeekin, Sean. Stalin's War: A New History of World War II. New York: Basic Books, 2017.
- Herring, George C. From Colony to Superpower: U.S. Foreign Relations since 1776. Oxford University Press, 2008.
- Suzuki, David. “The Role of the Atomic Bomb in Ending World War II.” Journal of American History, vol. 90, no. 1, June 2003, pp. 45-60.
Part C
World War II, which lasted from 1939 to 1945, stands as one of the most significant events in human history, resulting in substantial shifts in power and territory across the globe. Understanding the conclusion of this devastation is crucial for grasping how such conflicts can be resolved and how they shape our modern world. The end of the war hinged on several factors that not only delivered a military victory for the Allies but also laid the groundwork for future international relations. This essay argues that the conclusion of World War II in 1945 was primarily influenced by military successes of the Allied Forces, the devastating impact of the atomic bomb on Japan, and the collapse of Axis powers, which combined to create an unmanageable situation for the remaining resistance.
TASK 3: DRAFTING AND REVISING YOUR ESSAY
Part A
Essay
Introduction World War II, which lasted from 1939 to 1945, stands as one of the most significant events in human history, resulting in substantial shifts in power and territory across the globe. Understanding the conclusion of this devastation is crucial for grasping how such conflicts can be resolved and how they shape our modern world. The end of the war hinged on several factors that not only delivered a military victory for the Allies but also laid the groundwork for future international relations. This essay argues that the conclusion of World War II in 1945 was primarily influenced by the military successes of the Allied Forces, the devastating impact of the atomic bomb on Japan, and the collapse of Axis powers, which combined to create an unmanageable situation for the remaining resistance.
Body Paragraph 1 The military successes of the Allied Forces were pivotal in overcoming the Axis powers. Key battles, such as the Battle of Stalingrad and the D-Day invasion, marked turning points that shifted the momentum in favor of the Allies. The defeat of German troops in Stalingrad in early 1943 signified the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany, as the Allies began to reclaim territory in Europe. According to historian Sean McMeekin, "The battle dramatically depleted German resources and morale, setting the stage for Allied offensives across Europe" (McMeekin, 125). The successful landing in Normandy, known as D-Day, further solidified this military advantage, leading to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control.
Body Paragraph 2 In addition to these military victories, the use of the atomic bomb on Japan significantly influenced the conclusion of the war. In August 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, compelling Japan to surrender unconditionally. This unprecedented attack not only demonstrated the destructive capability of nuclear weapons but also expedited the end of hostilities. David Suzuki notes, "The bombings shocked the Japanese leadership, illustrating the futility of continuing a war that had already turned against them" (Suzuki, 50). The immediate and catastrophic consequences of the bombings reinforced the urgency for Japan to capitulate, ultimately leading to the formal surrender on September 2, 1945.
Body Paragraph 3 Lastly, the collapse of Axis powers played an essential role in concluding the war. As the war progressed, Italy transitioned from an Axis powerhouse to a victim of invasion by Allied forces, which weakened the coalition against the Allies. Furthermore, Nazi Germany faced challenges on multiple fronts, evidenced by the significant losses in both the Eastern and Western theaters. George Herring states, "The internal strife and strategic miscalculations within the Axis coalition made it increasingly difficult to mount a cohesive defense against the advance of Allied troops" (Herring, 214). This collapse was crucial in diminishing any remaining resistance, paving the way for the Allies to secure victory.
Conclusion In conclusion, the end of World War II in 1945 was the result of a confluence of military, political, and social factors. The successes of the Allied Forces in pivotal battles weakened Axis defenses, while the devastating use of atomic bombs forced Japan to surrender. Finally, the collapse of Axis powers created a situation where continued resistance was no longer viable. Understanding these dynamics not only helps us comprehend the events of the past but also informs our perspective on conflict resolution and international cooperation today.
Works Cited
Herring, George C. From Colony to Superpower: U.S. Foreign Relations since 1776. Oxford University Press, 2008.
McMeekin, Sean. Stalin's War: A New History of World War II. New York: Basic Books, 2017.
Suzuki, David. “The Role of the Atomic Bomb in Ending World War II.” Journal of American History, vol. 90, no. 1, June 2003, pp. 45-60.
Reviewer Feedback Summary
- The thesis statement needed to be clearer.
- Some paragraphs required more evidence and citations.
- Ensure proper transitions between paragraphs for flow.
- Check for grammatical and punctuation errors.
- Add more context in the conclusion regarding the impact on the post-war world.
Part B
[After making corrections and revisions based on the reviewer feedback, the final essay will be proofread for grammar, punctuation, and clarity. Then, I would submit both the final draft and the rough draft with notes for review.]