Here I present the generic Berlin experience with a specific concentrate on world war II. In this article we will briefly describe events leading to the start of the war, associated places and influence of the war on the city. Whether you are simply a history lover or just interested in this era, this guide will offer helpful information.

1. Background on World War II

The second global war in human history or Second World War was fought between 1939 and 1945. Some of the countries some of the countries that were involved in this war are Germany United States Soviet union and Britain. Right in the middle of it all was Berlin which was the capital of the Nazi controlled Germany.

1.1 Nazi Germany’s Rise to Power

Early in 1933 the Nazi Party led by Adolf Hitler was catapulted to power in Germany. The war broke out because of Hitler’s vigorous policies in the international arena supported by his radical agenda. Berlin in particular, under direction of Nazis, had turned to the main focus of Hitler’s ideas on a new order in the world.

1.2 The Berlin Wall

During the war, there was no existence of Berlin Wall. This one was built after the Second World War ended and was used to separate East and West Berlin during the Cold War period, 1961-1989. Technically per se the Berlin Wall is not a World War II sight but is very much a part of Berlin’s history and deserves to be seen.

2. Berlin’s Role during the War

Berlin was a critical city in World war 2 since it wasthe capital of the Nazi Germany. Interestingly, it is the place where Hitler worked, the Nazi Party had its administration office and where both sides of World War II attacked. In what follows, we present some of the most important facts related to Berlin and the role it played in the course of the war?

2.1 Bombing of Berlin

Boyle mentions that Berlin received the heaviest air raids by the allied forces during the war. Many strategic bombing campaigns had one goal: to destroy the will of Germans to fight, and to disarm the Nazi war machine. The bombings led to massive destruction of property indeed many of the greatest landmarks in the city could only be described as rubble.

2.2 The Battle of Berlin

From the second world war in Europe the battle of Berlin that was conducted in the year 1945 indicated the fame of the second world war. Yet, in April 1945 Soviet forces began a major drive on Berlin and the fighting became close and vicious on the streets of the city. Finally the Russians took the city and with its loss came the surrender of Germany.

3. Exploring Berlin Today

Today, Berlin is an active and progressive city with the living signs of World War II. It is mandatory to visit many historical places, museum and many memorials that are found in the city. Here are a few notable places to visit:

3.1 Reichstag Building

The actual place of the war and post-war period, the Reichstag Building that houses the German Parliament today. Tourists can walk inside the Dome from where one can get a look at the entire city skyline of Berlin.

3.2 East Side Gallery

East Side Gallery is a part of the wall that was painted and now it can be observed as a kind of fence gallery. Contents include more than a hundred wall paintings drawn by artists from different countries with messages to support peace and freedom.

3.3 Topography of Terror

The Topography of Terror is an open air and closed museum placed at the former Gestapo and SS complex. It houses artefacts, photographs among other items necessary for a social education exercise hence the Nazis regime, the crimes committed and the propaganda techniques used are fully illustrated.

4. Conclusion

Therefore, the history of Berlin during the Second World War is very multi-faceted. The war began when the city was under Nazis occupation, it was a place for bombings and finally liberated by the Soviets. Berlin, today shows the people of the whole world that even the pains of war are not enough to kill the Spirit of humanity. Visiting all those historical places and museums in Berlin is a very good chance to open a new page in human history.

We believe that this guide has helped you familiarise with Berlin in World War II. Regardless of whether you intend to go to the city, or enhance your knowledge – it is crucial to get acquainted with the influence which the war has placed upon Berlin. It has been great to have the chance to learn about this period of history and to have grown to appreciate the strength that is inherent in people.