Blitzkrieg
The Nazi war strategy & why it was so effective
Columns of Panzer I's in a parade
Background
The benefits of the Blitzkrieg not only extended to the initial attacks, where defenders would be caught completely by surprise, but it helped speed up conflict, reducing the number of deaths, along with damage to the terrain and cities. Many historians believe that one of the main influences to the Blitzkrieg's fast nature was to avoid the trench warfare that occurred during World War I.
Panzer I's, II's and III's driving through a small valley
The goal of a Blitzkrieg was to attack with a concentrated force to breach the enemy lines, and surround them. This would cut off enemy forces from one another, allowing for systematic removal of targets. The tactic was first used in the invasion of Poland, which ended in a quick victory. The Germans continued to use this tactic to conquer most of Europe.
Technology
M.P. 40
Messerschmitt
The Messerschmitt was a single seat interceptor aircraft. It was one of the main components of the Luftwaffe, and served as the backbone to supporting bombers.
Panzer III
The Panzer III was the Nazi's main battle tank during the beginning of WWII. It had a decent top speed of 22 mph. Later in the war, Panzer IIIs took more of an infantry support role, as the infamous 'Tiger tanks' began to appear.
Significance
Map of Europe, while under Nazi control
The Blitzkrieg had a major part in the war, allowing the Nazis to take the world by surprise. The string of victories that followed this strategy left the people of Germany ecstatic, and Nationalism swept the country, with German citizens signing up for the military in huge droves.