Ep 5. Barbarossa: June - December 1941

The World At War season 1 episode 5 is titled "Barbarossa: June - December 1941." This episode focuses on the German invasion of the Soviet Union, which was known as Operation Barbarossa and took place between June and December of 1941.

The episode begins by providing background information on the invasion, including the reasons why Adolf Hitler decided to launch the attack and the challenges that the German military faced during the campaign.

As the invasion begins, the episode details the initial successes that the German army experiences, including the capture of huge numbers of Soviet prisoners of war and the advance towards key Soviet cities like Leningrad and Moscow.

However, the episode also highlights the difficulties that the German military encountered, including the vast size of the Soviet Union and the harsh winter weather that they had to contend with. As a result, the German army was often spread thin and struggled to maintain supply lines, which gradually weakened its position.

Alongside the military action, the episode explores the impact that the invasion had on civilians, both in Germany and in the Soviet Union. It shows how the German occupation led to atrocities being committed against Soviet citizens, including Jews and other minority groups.

Amidst the fighting, the episode also reveals the political and diplomatic maneuvering that was taking place behind the scenes, both within Germany and among its allies. It shows how leaders such as Hitler and Joseph Stalin were making crucial decisions that would shape the course of the war.

As the year draws to a close, the episode concludes with both sides attempting to regroup and prepare for the next phase of the war. The Germans had advanced deep into Soviet territory, but they were also facing mounting losses and the harsh reality of a Russian winter. Meanwhile, the Soviet Union was rallying its forces and beginning to reorganize its defenses.

Overall, "Barbarossa: June - December 1941" provides a detailed and gripping account of one of the key moments of World War II. It shows how the German invasion of the Soviet Union was a pivotal event that shaped the course of the war and had broad and far-reaching consequences for both military and civilian populations.