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The 20 Best Argumentative Essay Topics On World War II

There is nothing like a good argumentative essay to sink your teeth into. The key is finding a topic that hasn’t either been done to death or bores you to death. The Second World War is fantastic because even though it is an incredibly popular choice there is still plenty of wriggle room in it; scope to write about it from a slightly different angle.

So, to save you running through the whole war trying to figure out the best way forward, I have come up with a list of what I feel are the best 20 argumentative essay topics:

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  • Choose a decisive battle and argue it from either side. The Battle of Berlin, and The Battle of Guadalcanal immediately spring to mind.
  • The role of women in World War 2
  • Compare and contrast the French Resistance movement to Resistance movements that we are currently seeing in the Middle East
  • Examine the effectiveness of Hitler’s attempts to control the media during the war. Did he set a dangerous precedent? Compare to modern day dictatorships like North Korea.
  • The First World War was supposed to be the war that ended all wars. Examine the triggers that led to the outbreak of war.
  • Was Hitler justified in invading Poland and subsequently occupying Czechoslovakia? How is that any different to modern day Russian incursions into Ukraine and Crimea?
  • Was the attack on Hiroshima justifiable?
  • Examine the treatment of Prisoners of War by the Japanese. Is there an argument so support their behavior, or was their treatment barbaric and a violation of international war, period?
  • Is it right that the international community should still be actively pursuing and trying former guards in concentration camps? Is it time that we let bygones be bygones? Should the world move on?
  • Did the holocaust really happen?
  • Is the current conflict between Israel and Palestine in any way rooted in the Second World War?
  • Is the destruction of ancient cities like Nimrod by ISIS in any way comparable to the Nazi burning of books?
  • Would Europe be a better place if Hitler had succeeded in his goal to invade Britain?
  • Can Russia and the West ever be truly at peace?
  • The recent rise in Anti-Semitism – Have we learned nothing from World War 2?
  • Can civilian deaths in war ever be justifiably called collateral damage? Use the allied bombing of Dresden as an example.
  • Look in depth at food rationing – Was it fairly implemented? Was there a genuine need to introduce it? Is there an argument to say that it was an unnecessary hardship?
  • Examine the treatment of deserters. Is desertion cowardice or bravery?
  • Were war veterans treat properly after WW2? Have any lessons been learned?
  • Examine the role of the secret services during WW2.
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109 World War 2 Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

World War 2 was one of the most significant events in modern history, shaping the world as we know it today. From the rise of totalitarian regimes to the devastation of entire cities, the war had a profound impact on millions of people around the globe. If you are tasked with writing an essay on World War 2, you may be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information and topics to choose from. To help you get started, here are 109 World War 2 essay topic ideas and examples to inspire your writing:

  • The causes of World War 2
  • The key players in World War 2
  • The role of propaganda in World War 2
  • The impact of technology on World War 2
  • The role of women in World War 2
  • The Holocaust and its aftermath
  • The Battle of Stalingrad
  • The D-Day invasion
  • The Pacific War
  • The Manhattan Project and the atomic bomb
  • The Nuremberg Trials
  • The role of the United Nations in post-war reconstruction
  • The legacy of World War 2 in modern politics
  • The impact of World War 2 on the economy
  • The resistance movements in occupied Europe
  • The role of Winston Churchill in World War 2
  • The role of Franklin D. Roosevelt in World War 2
  • The role of Joseph Stalin in World War 2
  • The role of Adolf Hitler in World War 2
  • The role of Benito Mussolini in World War 2
  • The role of Hirohito in World War 2
  • The role of General Eisenhower in World War 2
  • The role of General Patton in World War 2
  • The role of General MacArthur in World War 2
  • The role of General Montgomery in World War 2
  • The role of General Rommel in World War 2
  • The role of General Zhukov in World War 2
  • The role of General Yamamoto in World War 2
  • The role of General Tojo in World War 2
  • The role of General Nimitz in World War 2
  • The role of General De Gaulle in World War 2
  • The role of General Tito in World War 2
  • The role of General Chiang Kai-shek in World War 2
  • The role of General Hirohito in World War 2

These are just a few examples of the many topics you could explore in a World War 2 essay. Whether you choose to focus on a specific battle, individual, or aspect of the war, there is no shortage of material to draw from. Remember to conduct thorough research, cite your sources, and present your arguments clearly and convincingly. Good luck with your essay!

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World War II Research Essay Topics

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Students are often required to write a paper on a topic as broad as World War II , but you should know that the instructor will expect you to narrow your focus to a specific thesis. This is especially true if you are in high school or college. Narrow your focus by making a list of words, much like the list of words and phrases that are presented in bold type below. Then begin to explore related questions and come up with your own cool WWII topics. The answer to questions like these can become a good starting point for a thesis statement .

Culture and People

When the U.S. entered into war, everyday life across the country changed drastically. From civil rights, racism, and resistance movements to basic human needs like food, clothing, and medicine, the aspects of how life was impacted are immense.

  • African-Americans and civil rights. What impact did the war years have on the rights of African-Americans? What were they allowed or not allowed to do?
  • Animals. How were horses, dogs, birds, or other animals used? Did they play a special role?
  • Art. What art movements were inspired by wartime events? Is there one specific work of art that tells a story about the war?
  • Clothing. How was fashion impacted? How did clothing save lives or hinder movement? What materials were used or not used?
  • Domestic violence. Was there an increase or decrease in cases?
  • Families. Did new family customs develop? What was the impact on children of soldiers?
  • Fashion. Did fashion change significantly for civilians? What changes had to be made during wartime?
  • Food preservation. What new preservation and packaging methods were used during and after the war? How were these helpful?
  • Food rationing. How did rationing impact families? Were rations the same for different groups of people? Were soldiers affected by rations?
  • Love letters. What do letters tell us about relationships, families, and friendships? What about gender roles?
  • New words. What new vocabulary words emerged during and after WWII?
  • Nutrition. Were there battles that were lost or won because of the foods available? How did nutrition change at home during the war because of the availability of certain products?
  • Penicillin and other medicine. How was penicillin used? What medical developments occurred during and after the war?
  • Resistance movements. How did families deal with living in an occupied territory?
  • Sacrifices. How did family life change for the worse?
  • Women's work at home. How did women's work change at home during the war? What about after the war ended?

Economy and Workforce

For a nation that was still recovering from the Great Depression, World War II had a major impact on the economy and workforce. When the war began, the fate of the workforce changed overnight, American factories were repurposed to produce goods to support the war effort and women took jobs that were traditionally held by men, who were now off to war.

  • Advertising. How did food packaging change during the war? How did advertisements change in general? What were advertisements for?
  • Occupations. What new jobs were created? Who filled these new roles? Who filled the roles that were previously held by many of the men who went off to war?
  • Propaganda. How did society respond to the war? Do you know why?
  • Toys. How did the war impact the toys that were manufactured?
  • New products. What products were invented and became a part of popular culture? Were these products present only during war times, or did they exist after?

Military, Government, and War

Americans were mostly against entering the war up until the bombing of Pearl Harbor, after which support for the war grew, as did armed forces. Before the war, the US didn't have the large military forces it soon became known for, with the war resulting in over 16 million Americans in service.   The role the military played in the war, and the impacts of the war itself, were vast.

  • America's entry into the war. How is the timing significant? What factors are not so well known?
  • Churchill, Winston. What role did this leader play that interests you most? How did his background prepare him for his role?
  • Clandestine operations. Governments went to great lengths to hide the true date, time, and place of their actions.
  • Destruction. Many historic cities and sites were destroyed in the U.K.—Liverpool, Manchester, London, and Coventry—and in other nations.
  • Hawaii. How did events impact families or society in general?
  • The Holocaust. Do you have access to any personal stories?
  • Italy. What special circumstances were in effect?
  • " Kilroy was here ." Why was this phrase important to soldiers? 
  • Nationalist Socialist movement in America. What impact has this movement had on society and the government since WWII?
  • Political impact. How was your local town impacted politically and socially?
  • POW camps after the war. Where were they and what happened to them after the war? Here's a starting point: Some were turned into race tracks after the war!
  • Prisoners of war. How many POWs were there? How many made it home safely? What were some long-lasting effects?
  • Spies. Who were the spies? Were they men or women? What side were they on? What happened to spies that were caught?
  • Submarines. Were there enemy submarines on a coast near you? What role did submarines play in the war?
  • Surviving an attack. How were military units attacked? How did it feel to jump from a plane that was disabled?
  • Troop logistics. How were troop movements kept secret? What were some challenges of troop logistics?
  • Views on freedom. How was freedom curtailed or expanded?
  • Views on government's role. Where was the government's role expanded? What about governments elsewhere?
  • War crime trials. How were trials conducted? What were the political challenges or consequences? Who was or wasn't tried?
  • Weather. Were there battles that were lost or won because of the weather conditions? Were there places where people suffered more because of the weather?
  • Women in warfare. What roles did women play during the war? What surprises you about women's work in World War II?

Technology and Transportation

With the war came advancements in technology and transportation, impacting communications capabilities, the spread of news, and even entertainment.

  • Bridges and roads. What transportation-related developments came from wartime or postwar policies?
  • Communication. How did radio or other types of communication impact key events?
  • Motorcycles. What needs led to the development of folding motorcycles? Why was there widespread use of military motorcycles by the government?
  • Technology. What technology came from the war and how was it used after the war?
  • TV technology. When did televisions start to appear in homes and what is significant about the timing? What TV shows were inspired by the war and how realistic were they? How long did World War II affect TV programming?
  • Jet engine technology. What advances can be traced to WWII needs?
  • Radar. What role did radar play, if any?
  • Rockets. How important was rocket technology?
  • Shipbuilding achievements. The achievements were quite remarkable during the war. Why and how did they happen?

"America's Wars Fact Sheet." U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, May 2017.

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World War 2 Essay Topics: 50+ Ideas and Examples for Your Paper

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by  Antony W

December 5, 2023

world war 2 essay topics

Perhaps the most difficult part about writing an essay on World War 2 is to find a title. Brainstorming ideas and doing preliminary research to determine if a topic is good can take a lot of time. To make the ideation process easier for you, we’ve put together a list of 50+ topics that you might love.

World War II is a broad subject. So you want to make sure you first read the assignment brief and narrow down your focus on a specific area that you can cover within the scope of the assignment.

Of course, a list of 50+ prewritten topics means you have an unlimited option when it comes to topic selection. Yet, given that you can cover only one topic at a time, it’s best to single out what topic would be best for you to explore and then develop it based on the assignment brief.  

Key Takeaways

  • While World War II is a broad area with hundreds of History essay topics , your focus should be on a specific topic that you can explore within the scope of the assignment.
  • Choose a topic that you find fascinating, especially if falls within a theme that you’ve always wanted to explore.
  • Refer to the assignment prompt if you’re in doubt about your topic, or seek guidance from your teacher for further clarity.

50+ Best World War 2 Essay Topics: 50+ Ideas for Your Paper

The following is a list of some of the best World War II topics for your next essay assignment:

Economy and Workforce Topics

The United States was already struggling to recover from the Great Depression, which means that World War II did have a severe effect on the economy and workforce of the states. Here are some topic ideas to consider.

  • You can write an essay on how food packaging evolved during the war and the changes that occurred in advertisements.
  • What were the newly created job roles, and who filled these new positions during the war
  • Explain how the society reacted to the war’s propaganda, as well as the underlying reasons for these responses.
  • How did Word War II alter the production of toys during the period that it lasted?
  • What were the new products introduced that became part of popular culture during and after the war?

Culture and People Topics

Your essay can focus on the drastic changes to life after the United States of America got into World War II. From racism and civil rights to basic needs and resistance movements, here are some example topics to consider:

  • What changes occurred in the rights of African-Americans during wartime?
  • Did horses, dogs, birds, or other animals hold specific significance or functions in World War II?
  • Was there a rise or decline in domestic violence cases during this period?
  • Explain how the children of soldiers cope with the impact of the World War II.
  • What changes did civilian fashion undergo during World War II and what were the impacts of the alterations?
  • What do letters reveal about relationships, families, and gender roles during the World War II period?
  • How was penicillin used, and was there any medical progress during and after the war?

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Technology and Transportation Topics

World War II contributed quite significantly to the development of transportation and technology . This change the way news spread, how people entertained themselves, and the way human beings communicated. Here are some topic ideas that fit into this area:

  • What advancements in transportation infrastructure emerged from wartime or postwar policies, specifically in bridges and roads?
  • Explain how radio or other communication methods influence significant events.
  • Write about the needs that drove the creation of folding motorcycles and why military motorcycles in use wide use by the government?
  • State the technologies that originated from the war and explain their implementation after the World War II.
  • Which TV shows drew inspiration from the war, and how accurate were they?
  • Can we attribute the progress in jet engine technology to the World War II?
  • How crucial was rocket technology during this period?
  • Why and how did remarkable shipbuilding accomplishments occur during the war?

World War II Argumentative Essay Topics

An argumentative essa y topic on the Second World War requires you to take a side and use evidence, statistics, and reasons to defend that position. You’ll have to look at both sides of the arguments, but then use the strongest pieces of evidence to explain why you believe your take on the topic (or issue) is more believable than the other is.  Here are some examples:

  • Did the World War II even alter the global balance of power?
  • Evaluate the roles played by nationalism, imperialism, and totalitarianism in causing WWII.
  • Are there controversies surrounding the use of atomic bombs during the World War II?
  • Look at the factors that facilitated the Holocaust on a massive scale during the Second World War.
  • Did women have a strong contribution to the World War II and was their fight for equality during the time reasonable?
  • Did propaganda affect public perception during the World War II?
  • The World War II did not play a big contribution to the technological and scientific progress at the time.
  • Was the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II a violation of their civil rights?

World War II History Topics

  • How did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to and influence the outbreak of World War II?
  • Explain the factors that led to the ascension of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.
  • Assess the importance of the Battle of Britain in halting German advancement.
  • What role did Winston Churchill play in guiding Britain through World War II?
  • Examine the tactics and significant battles in the Pacific during World War 2.
  • Analyze how resistance movements in occupied Europe contributed to the Allies’ success.

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About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Free World War 2 Essay Examples & Topics

World War 2 is an international war from 1939 to 1945. The conflict involved the Axis alliance of Germany, Italy, and Japan against the Allied powers of France, Great Britain, the USA, the USSR, and China. WW2 remains the most significant conflict in history, with estimated 40,000,000–50,000,000 deaths.

Keep in mind that you should be politically correct and ethically proper while writing a WW 2 essay. Being one of the most crucial events in the world’s history, it has caused controversial interpretations.

In this article, our team has prepared some tips on how to write World War 2 in an essay or research paper. You’ll find great topics for practice or completing your assignment. Besides, there are World War 2 essay examples. They will be amazing for understanding the appropriate structure and argumentation.

To compose a paper about any war, you’ll have to use common techniques. In essence, writing WWII essays is similar to describing other tragic historical events. You should elaborate on the assigned timeline, refer to trustworthy sources, and be careful in stating your points.

WW2 essay writing includes the following aspects:

  • Sources . There are two types of sources that you can use. Primary sources are the first-hand retelling of the event. It might be the newspapers, documents, etc. Secondary sources are based on the primary ones. It might be researches or books. Remember that the sources should be trustworthy.
  • Citations . Make sure to cite all your quotes, even the paraphrased ones. Provide the context to each one and try to summarize information from different sources. If you do a quotation, remember to mention it in the reference list.
  • Historical context . While writing a paper about real events, it is crucial to provide historical context. You need to analyze the evidence and study various sources. Express your own thoughts based on what you’ve learned.
  • Thesis statement . In one sentence, summarize the point of your paper. That’s your thesis statement. It can be a question that you’ll answer in your essay. Our thesis generator can help you create one for your paper.
  • Outline. Writing about a war, you should follow the standard academic structure. It includes an introduction with a hook, three body paragraphs with arguments and evidence, and a conclusion. In the body paragraphs, write topic sentences that support the thesis.
  • Title . Your WW2 essay title should summarize the main idea of your paper. Make sure to capitalize the words according to the required format.

You’ll have no trouble writing your WW2 essay if you use our tips. What you need to do now is to choose an idea to elaborate on. For that purpose, use our topic generator or check the list below.

There are 25 WW2 essay topics we can recommend to you:

  • Impact of World War 2 on the world’s economy.
  • What were the reasons for World War 2?
  • What are the results of WW2?
  • The military training process in the Second World War.
  • Versailles Treaty and the way it affected Germany.
  • What role did WW2 play in aircraft development?
  • The role of African American soldiers in WW2.
  • The ways rationing affected people’s lives during WW2.
  • WW2 sides and leaders, and their impact on world history.
  • The role of propaganda posters during WW2.
  • The way WW2 affected civil liberties.
  • How the creation of atomic bombs affected WW2.
  • The reason why WW2 caused Cold War.
  • What are the consequences of World War 2 for the USA?
  • Universal Declaration of Human Rights after WW2.
  • The reasons the USA entered WW2.
  • Causes and events that led to WW2.
  • What are the WW2 innovations that changed our lives?
  • What role did Penicillin play during WW2?
  • The WW2 impact on international alliances.
  • What was the women’s role in World War 2?
  • Activities for teaching younger students about WW2.
  • How WW2 influenced art and culture.
  • Could WW2 have been avoided?
  • The ways WW2 impacted the railroads.

Thanks for reading, and good luck with your World War 2 essay! You’ll find free samples below.

169 Best Essay Examples on World War II

Miscommunication problems: the us and japan in world war ii.

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The World War 2 Positive and Negative Repercussions

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The Causes and Consequences of World War Two

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Causes of World War II

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“The Naked and the Dead” by Norman Mailer

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The World War II Propaganda Techniques

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Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombing

Doing academic world war ii research.

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The Office of Strategic Services Operational Groups in World War II

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Warfare: Ethical and Moral Issues

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Pre-World War II South Africa: Centuries-Old Exploitation

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USA’s Ever-Increasing Involvement in Vietnam Between the 1950s and 1970s

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Wikipedia: Posts About World War II

Hiroshima and nagasaki: the long-term health effects.

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Chapter Summary: The Rise of the State System, 1914-1950

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The Liberation of the Nazi Concentration Camps

The reality and myth of “the good war”, paul kramer: exceptions, and anglo-saxons, fisherman’s wharf in san francisco, the decision to drop the atom bomb, the impacts of the germans on the market garden operation.

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“Thank God for Atom the Bomb” by Paul Fussell: Arguments for Nuclear Bombing

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The World War II: Impact and Consequences

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Comparing World War II to September 11th

Female russian snipers: from second world war to present day.

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World War II and Germany’s Invasion Plans

Investigation of war causes between the usa and japan.

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Women’s Role in World War II

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Donovan Webster’s Book Aftermath

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World War II Propaganda Posters in America

The influence of the second world war on the 20th and 21st centuries’ cinema.

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E. b. sledge’s views on dropping the a-bomb, issue of world war ii regarding comfort women.

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Intelligence, War and International Relations

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Hiroshima and Its Importance in US History

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World War 2 Essay: Outline + 100 WW2 Research Topics

This time you have to write a World War II essay, paper, or thesis. It means that you have a perfect chance to refresh those memories about the war that some of us might forget.

So many words can be said about the war in that it seems you will simply get lost in a variety of WW2 research topics and questions.

Still, you do not know what to write about in your World War 2 essay for middle school. Of course, you may look through several free essays in search of ideas. However, you may find our suggestions interesting or get instant writing help right here.

  • 🔝 Top 10 Topics
  • 🎓 Essay Topics for Student
  • 🎖️ WW2 Argumentative Essay Topics
  • 💡 More Topic Examples
  • 📑 Outline Examples
  • 💁 General Info

🔗 References

🔝 top 10 ww2 essay topics.

  • Was the battle of Dunkirk a failure?
  • WWII technologies that changed our lives
  • The outcome of the Nuremberg trials
  • Medical experiments during the Holocaust
  • Battle of Midway as a turning point in WWII
  • Why is penicillin a wonder of World War 2?
  • Why is the Bataan Death March a war crime?
  • The impact of propaganda during WWII
  • Racial segregation in the armed forces during WWII
  • What makes the Battle of Stalingrad the deadliest in WWII?

🎓 WW2 Essay Topics for Student

  • Contributions of women pilots in World War II
  • “Gesture Life” and “Maus”: post-World War II injuries
  • The federal government’s actions during World War II
  • Rebuilding Europe after World War II
  • World War II in Europe: development and costs
  • World War II: maskirovka military deception and denials operations
  • World War II in the Pacific region
  • The second World War’s historical aspects
  • The rise and fall of communism after World War II
  • South Africa in World War II
  • Battle of the Midway during World War II
  • World War II: the history of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
  • What effect did the World War II wartime experience have on African Americans?
  • The battle of Britain during World War II
  • World War II was a continuation of World War I
  • Communism in Europe and America after World War II
  • Camps for displaced persons after the end of World War II
  • Nazis prosecution for the World War II crimes
  • World War II was avoidable
  • Nazi Germany’s resources and demise in World War II
  • The United States and East Asia since World War II
  • Japan after World War II: main events and modifications
  • Atomic bomb technology and World War II outcomes
  • Pacific theater of World War II
  • Impact of World War II on Balkan nationalism, states and societies
  • World War II: internment of the Japanese Americans
  • World War II in “The Rape of Europa” Documentary
  • The characteristics of successful warfare after the second World War
  • Great Depression and World War II impact on the United States economy
  • Battle of the Bulge during World War II
  • Escape from Sobibor: World War 2 holocaust
  • World War II: why Germans lost and allies won
  • World War II impact on racial issues in the United States
  • Women’s representations before and after World War II
  • United States-Japan relations during World War II
  • Second World War: cause and technology
  • American foreign policy since World War II
  • World War II, the Cold War and New Europe
  • The Crete battle of World War II
  • Home front of the United States during the second World War

🎖️ WW2: Argumentative Essay Topics

As it happens quite often, teachers like to ask students to write an essay on World War II. However, don’t expect it to be easy. It should be something more narrow than the essay about the causes of World War II.

You can use some practical techniques to come up with a suitable topic. For instance, some of the most popular ones are mind mapping and brainstorming. Don’t forget to use questions to create a perfect thesis statement.

But we have made your life so much easier and prepared this comprehensive list of WWII argumentative essay topics. There are also short hints to help you start with your paper.

🔫 World War 2 Essay Topics: Military

  • Exploring the effects of WWII on life in Hawaii. Research the impact of those events on the social life of families living there.
  • Family memories of the Holocaust. Dig deep and see if you have any (distant) relatives who were the witnesses.
  • Something unique about Italy in WWII. Look into some exceptional circumstances that occurred there at the time of the war.
  • The origins of the phrase “Kilroy was here.” It is quite a controversial topic, so you might want to study all the sources you can find.
  • Nationalist Socialists: examine the importance of the movement in the US. What was its social impact since the war? Describe this in your WW2 essay.
  • Write about your town/city. Conduct research to find out about the political changes in your hometown related to war.
  • The transformation of the prisoner-of-war camps . Write about what happened to the POW camps after the end of the war.
  • The fate of the prisoners of war. Study the documents to get to know what happened to them and whether they continued their healthy lives.
  • Describe the spies that participated in WWII. Who were they? What usually happened to those who were caught by different sides?
  • The role of women . Discover the contribution of the weaker sex in warfare and write about the most surprising facts.
  • How important were the weather conditions for the outcomes of WWII ? Find out which battles were lost or won due to the weather.
  • War crimes: consequences. Conduct research to answer the questions about the war crime trials, their outcomes, and the most notorious cases.
  • Research the role of the US government in WWII . Compare it to the other governments and analyze the strategies they were using.
  • The sense of freedom during the war. For this WW2 essay topic, you would need to look critically at how freedom was suppressed or expanded.
  • What was so special about the movements of the troop? Here, you would be expected to provide the answers concerning the secrecy and challenges.
  • The experiences of the attack survivors. Find out what was happening during the attack on the military units and the planes.

🤖 World War 2 Essay Topics: Technology

  • The role of the submarines in the war. This World War II research topic is all about the importance of the submarines.
  • Estimate the destruction in the UK. Find out how many historical places were wiped out as a result of the war.
  • Was Winston Churchill prepared for it? Write about the background of that influential leader and how it helped him at the wartime.
  • Write about the time the US entered the war. Are there any facts that we still don’t know well enough? What about the timing?
  • The miracle of the radar. This WW2 essay topic would be interesting for those who are fascinated by technology. What was the role of that device in WWII?
  • Rocket technology and the war. Write about the importance of the rockets and what the moment when they changed the course of the war.
  • Building the ultimate warship. What was the driving force of the developments in the field of shipbuilding during WWII?
  • Describe the main means of communication during the war. Don’t forget to mention the radio and its impact on the major events in your World War 2 essay.
  • The development of bridges and roads. What were the main technological achievements in this field that still impact our everyday life?
  • Explain the rise of the popularity of motorcycles during the war. Feel free to mention the folding bikes and their invention.
  • The technology we have thanks to the war. Dedicate your WW2 essay to the inventions we can’t live without nowadays that were created during the war.
  • What about TVs? You can narrow down this World War II essay question as you wish. For example, write about the shows dedicated to the war.
  • The jet engines developed by the needs of war. Look into the reasons why those engines were created during WWII.

💰 WW2 Research Topics: Economy

  • What about propaganda? This WWII essay should describe how people in the US were reacting to the war and why.
  • The product of war: pop culture elements. Think about products that became popular and maybe even stayed a part of culture after the war ended.
  • Toy story: WWII edition. Find out how the war influenced the toy production and whether it was a part of propaganda.
  • The major changes in the job market sponsored by WWII. What new roles suddenly appeared on the job market, thanks to the war?
  • The power of advertising. To narrow it down, you can even mention how the food packaging was adjusted and why.

🎨 WW2 Research Topics: Culture

  • Discover the world of fashion during the wartime. It is one of the cool WWII essay topics. It should be about the new trends for civilians at the time.
  • The analysis of artworks created during WWII. Choose a piece of art inspired by war and analyze it. What is its story?
  • New times require new family traditions. How were the customs inside the families changed by the war? What about raising children? Highlight these issues in your World War 2 essay.
  • The secrets of the love letters during the war. This short essay would require you to dig into the archives and find out what the letters could tell us about the relationships back then.
  • What was the unique role of animals in WWII? Dedicate your writing to some type of animal and discuss how they were used.
  • The rights of African-Americans during the time of war. Write about how their civil rights were changed and try to find the root causes.
  • Food preservation methods: another revolution. This example is all about food and how it was packed and preserved during the war.
  • The cases of domestic violence during the cold war. Were the rates higher at the time? Did political tension cause it? This is also a great World War 2 essay topic.
  • Expanding the vocabulary. Just like any other part of life, the language also went through some changes. What were the new words that emerged?
  • The troubled life of housewife during WWII. Describe the work women used to do at the wartime and how it was changed.
  • Still resisting: the movements created by families. Here, you should concentrate on the experience of the families that live in the occupied territories.
  • Lifesaving food: the role of nutrition in WWII. Try to research and find the battles that were lost or won due to the availability of food.
  • The impact of food rationing on soldiers and families. Write your WW2 essay about the struggles of families and different groups of people.
  • What were the common sacrifices of families during the war? In this essay, you would need to look into the negative changes in families’ lifestyles.
  • The miracle of penicillin: WWII. This research aims to uncover the importance of penicillin or any other medicine of your choice.
  • The clothes that saved lives. Write about different types of clothing and materials that were used to help the soldiers on the battlefield.

💡 World War 2 Essay: More Topic Examples

Below, other suggestions on what you might write about in essays on World War II are presented:

Present in Your World War 2 Essay Alternative Decisions That Could Have Changed the Course of the War Dramatically

Such World War 2 essay will aim to explore some of the greatest decision making mistakes of the world leaders. We do not mean that you should discuss some miraculous history events like “what if Hitler had a heart attack.” In the World War 2 essay devoted to this problem, give realistic alternative decisions that were considered but not realized. Analyze those alternatives that could have changed the end of the war.

“In Your World War Ii Essay, Try to Answer the Question “When Did Hitler Lose the War?”

When did Adolf Hitler lose his chance to win World War II? What was it? These are the World War 2 essay questions you have to answer. Analyze different viewpoints of historians and present your opinion in the essay on World War 2.

Cover the Themes of Atrocity and War-Crimes in the World War 2 Essay

Acts of genocides and atrocity against civil population occurred in such countries as Japan, the Soviet Union, and Germany. Some of them were so horrific and immense that they changed the psyche of many people and different nations. When disclosing this theme in the Second World War essay, tell about Nazi concentration camps, “Death-camps,” the Holocaust , etc.

If you are interested in other  history essay  topics, read our hints for writing terrorism essays . And don’t forget to tell us in comments below your opinion about the World War 2.

📑 World War 2 Essay: Outline Examples

The next is creating a neat outline, which would become a massive help for you during the process of writing. Find examples of World War II essay outlines below!

Example 1. Analyze how some alternative decisions could have changed the course of World War II

Try to pick something realistic. Merely writing that if Hitler suddenly died and the war had never happened is just dull. Get creative and maybe take as a basis some real facts that were considered but never came into life.

  • In your World War II essay introduction , present the chosen decision. Include your thesis statement in this part as well. It should be your hypothesis concerning the topic.
  • In the main body , give at least three arguments why and how that decision would have changed things. Here, you prove your hypothesis to be right. You may add one counter-argument if you wish. For instance, include the opinion of a historian saying that it wouldn’t change anything.
  • In conclusion , state your opinion once again, which is now supported by arguments.

Example 2. When did it happen that Germany lost the war?

Think about when Adolf Hitler might have missed his chance to win World War II. What was it? Include some details. Once again, do your research and consider the opinions of different historians.

  • In the introduction to this World War 2 essay , present your point of view. In the thesis statement, write the answer to World War II essay questions clearly and coherently.
  • The main body here is for you to include three to five pieces of evidence that may prove you right. If you decide to write an argumentative essay, you might add some contradicting facts, too.
  • In the last part of your writing, focus on paraphrasing your thesis statement.

Example 3. World War II: discuss war crimes and atrocity

This essay title is related to all acts of cruelty against the civil population, including genocides. You may want to narrow it down according to your preferences. For instance, you can talk about how concentration camps created by Nazis have changed the people’s psyche.

  • Introduce this WW2 essay topic by stating how people have changed after surviving the Death Camps. It might be a good idea to include a sentence at the beginning that may serve as a hook to make your readers interested.
  • In the body , present not less than three examples of what you think might be relevant. Those should be proven historical facts if you want your essay to be persuasive.
  • Conclude by providing a summary of the facts presented in the main body. Add the paraphrased thesis statement.

💁 World War 2: General Information

World war ii: timeline.

Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. And on September 3, 1939, France and Britain, fulfilling their obligations to Poland, declared war on Germany and World War II began.

However, the beginning of World War II was preceded by some events, inextricably related:

  • September 18, 1931. Japan attacked Manchuria
  • October 2, 1935 – May 1936. Fascist Italy invaded Ethiopia, conquered and annexed it
  • October 25 – November 1, 1936. On October 25, Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy concluded a cooperation agreement. November 1 announced the creation of the “ Rome-Berlin Axis “
  • November 25, 1936. Nazi Germany and imperialist Japan concluded the Anti-Comintern Pact, directed against the USSR and the international communist movement
  • July 7, 1937. Japan invaded China. The World War II began in the Pacific
  • 11-13 March 1938. Germany joins Austria (the so-called Anschluss)
  • September 29, 1938. Germany, Italy, Great Britain and France signed the Munich agreement obliging the Czechoslovak Republic to cede Nazi Germany to the Sudetenland (where the critical Czechoslovak fortifications were located)
  • 14-15 March 1939. Under pressure from Germany, the Slovaks declared their independence and created the Slovak Republic. The Germans broke the Munich agreement , occupied the Czech lands, and established the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia

German and French guns WW2.

  • March 31, 1939. France and the United Kingdom provided guarantees of the inviolability of the borders of Poland
  • 7-15 April 1939. Fascist Italy attacked Albania and annexed it
  • August 23, 1939. Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union signed a non-aggression pact and a secret annex to it, according to which Europe was divided into spheres of influence

Some scientists think that the World War II was a continuation of the World War I ended in 1918.

September 2, 1945, is the date when the World War II ended. Japan, agreed to unconditional surrender on August 14, 1945, officially capitulates, thereby putting an end to World War II.

World War II: Key Facts

  • Perhaps, the World War II was one the most destructive wars in modern history. About 27,000 people were killed each day from September 1, 1939, to September 2, 1945.
  • The primary opponents were Nazi Germany, fascist Italy, Imperial Japan on the one hand, and the Soviet Union, Great Britain, France the United States , and China on the other.
  • Germany capitulated on May 7, 1945 . At the same time, Japan continued to fight for another four months before their capitulation on September 2. Atomic bombs, dropped by American troops on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, were first used against Japan.
  • The end of the war was marked by Britain losing most of its empire . At the same time, World War II accelerated the revival of the US and Soviet economies as global superpowers.
  • After the end of the World War II, the “Cold War” between the US and the USSR started.

World War 2: Casualties

The exact World War II casualties remain unknown. However, historians name that the total number of victims was over 60 million people including military and civilians killed. Below you’ll find the list of states suffered the highest losses:

  • 42,000,000 people–USSR
  • 9,000,000 people–Germany
  • 4,000,000 people–China
  • 3,000,000 people–Japan

World War II: Causes

Perhaps, there were many prerequisites for World War II:

  • Japan’s victory over Russia in the Russo-Japanese War (1904-05) opened the door for Japanese expansion in the Asia-Pacific region
  • The US Navy first developed plans to prepare for a naval war with Japan in 1890
  • The Great Depression, and the global recession that followed
  • The coming to power of Hitler and his statement about the injustice of the Versailles Treaty, signed in 1918
  • The creation in 1935 of the Luftwaffe, as a direct violation of the 1919 treaty
  • Remilitarization of the Rhineland in 1936
  • Anschluss of Austria and the annexation of part of Czechoslovakia
  • Italy’s desire to create a Third Rome and Japan’s goal to create an independent state with the Pan-Asian sphere of influence

World War II: Results

The results of World War II are not limited to losses and destruction. As a result of the war, the face of the world changed: new borders and new states appeared, new tendencies of social development emerged, and significant inventions were made.

The war gave a strong impetus to the development of science and technology. Radar, jet aircraft, ballistic missiles, antibiotics, electronic computers and many other discoveries were made or entered into widespread use during the war. The foundations of the scientific and technological revolution were laid, which transformed and continued to change the postwar world.

The ideology of fascism, Nazism, racism, colonialism thoroughly discredited itself; on the contrary, the ideas of anti-fascism, anti-colonialism, democracy, and socialism gained wide popularity.

The human rights recorded in the UN Charter are internationally recognized. The influence of parties and groups that fought for democracy and social transformations–communists, socialists, social democrats, Christian democrats and other democratic forces, has sharply increased.

In many countries, significant reforms carried out: partial nationalization of industry and banks, the creation of a state system of social insurance, the expansion of workers’ rights. In some countries, including France, Italy, Germany, Japan, have adopted new, democratic constitutions. There was a profound renewal of the society, democratization of state and public institutions.

Auschwitz deadliest concentration camp.

The colonial system disintegration was another significant result and consequence of the Second World War. Before the war, the vast majority of the world’s population lived in colonies, the area, and population of which many times exceeded the metropolitan countries: Britain, France, Holland, Belgium, Italy, and Japan.

During the World War 2 and after its end, part of the dependent and colonial countries (Syria, Lebanon, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Burma, Philippines, and Korea) declared itself independent. In 1947, India became independent, divided into two dominions: India and Pakistan. The intense process of liberation of the colonial peoples began, which continued until the complete abolition of the colonies in the second half of the twentieth century.

As a result of the war, the balance of forces in the world has changed dramatically. Germany, Italy, Japan were defeated, for a time turned into dependent countries, occupied by foreign troops. The war destroyed their economy, and they for many years could not compete with their former competitors.

Compared with the pre-war time, the positions of France and even Great Britain weakened considerably. The USA came out of the war significantly strengthened. Having surpassed all other countries economically and militarily, the United States became the sole leader of the capitalist world.

The second “superpower” was the Soviet Union. By the end of the war, the Soviet Union had the most massive land army in the world and substantial industrial potential. The USSR Armed Forces were in many countries of Central and Eastern Europe, East Germany and North Korea.

Some countries liberated by the Soviet Union took the road of non-capitalist development. After the liberation from the occupiers in Albania, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, people’s democratic governments were established with the participation or under the leadership of the Communists, who began profound social transformations. By the Yalta agreements , these countries were considered to be the sphere of influence of the Soviet Union and were in fact under its control.

If the United States became the leader of the capitalist world, then the Soviet Union led the social forces that opposed capitalism. Two main poles of attraction of the world forces, conventionally called the East and the West, were formed; began to build two ideological and military-political blocs, the confrontation of which largely determined the structure of the post-war bipolar world.

The anti-fascist coalition split. Its participants came into conflict with each other, and the “ Cold War ” that lasted more than 45 years, until the collapse of the USSR.

This might be interesting for you:

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Thanks for these ideas for essays on World War II. These are what I need for my paper about WWII. Now I can start writing my essay on World War II.

To write World War II essays is very instructive – to know the reasons, the course of war events, the results. These all are necessary to comprehend and debar World War III as humanity won’t go through it!

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How to Write about World War 2 – Essay Topics & Examples

The Second World War was a turning point in history that changed the world as we know it. Over two thousand days of hardship, courage, victory, and loss still fascinate and influence historians, filmmakers, novelists, and politicians worldwide. You may be asked to write a research paper or an essay on this 20th century conflict as part of your coursework. Our team has prepared several fascinating ideas you may explore in your writing.

  • 🎖️ Top 10 World War 2 Topics
  • 💡 Interesting WW2 Topics
  • 🏆 Best WW2 Research Topics
  • 📚 Research Questions
  • ✒️ World War 2 Essay Questions
  • 📝 World War 2 Essay Examples
  • 🪖 General Information about WW2

🔗 References

🎖️ top 10 world war 2 essay topics.

We’ve compiled the topics that can inspire you to write an essay. To make the process simpler, we have included the main messages of each paper.

  • Could the Axis powers have been defeated without opening the second front? Explore how the war would have gone without the invasion of Normandy.
  • Why did Japan decide to side with Germany and Italy? List the social and political reasons that pushed the Empire of Japan to become an Axis power.
  • Explore the impact of the battle for Stalingrad on the course of WW2. Show how the battle of Stalingrad turned the tide of war on the Eastern front.
  • What were the causes of Germany’s military success in 1941?   Name the main causes of Germany’s successful assault on the Soviet Union.
  • Discuss the dissolution of the British Empire after WW2. Talk about the leading consequences of disbanding the British Empire in its former colonies.
  • What led to the start of WW2? Explore political and economic factors that caused the start of the Second World War.
  • Was the US justified in using nuclear weapons against Japan? Explain the reasoning behind USA’s decision to drop atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
  • Discuss the role of the Munich Agreement in the rise of Nazi Germany . Explain how the Munich Agreement became one of the precursors of WW2 and the occupation of Western Europe.
  • Explore the crucial battles of WW2. Discuss the pivotal conflicts of both the Western and Eastern fronts.
  • Discuss the initial losses of the USSR in 1941-1942. Assess the reasons behind the colossal losses of the USSR in civilian and military casualties.

💡 Interesting WW2 Argumentative Essay Topics

Look at our list of the most intriguing titles dedicated to the cultural and military developments before, during, and after World War 2. You may find WW2 argumentative essay topics that will resonate with you and help you write an exceptional paper.

An argumentative essay is a piece of writing in which you should state your position.

WW2 Essay Topics: Culture

Here, we unearth how World War II impacted the world’s cultures, making it a captivating subject for social studies enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of this transformative era.

  • Explain the cultural impact of WW2 on the movie industry. Tell your readers about how WW2 influenced the American cinematic landscape in movies like Casablanca .
  • How WW2 impacted American culture during the Cold War . Explore how the war’s events influenced American society, including its vehement anti-communist sentiment.
  • The role of traditional culture in WW2 Japan. Discuss the role of bushido and other traditional elements in Japan’s wartime culture .
  • Explore the changes in the USSR’s culture during the war period. Show how WW2 shaped different cultural aspects in the besieged USSR.
  • How WW2 influenced the 20th-century music scene. Determine how the war influenced the music scene of the 1940s.
  • The cultural impact of WW2 on modern video games. Explore the influence of WW2 on modern video games such as Call of Duty , Wolfenstein , and World of Tanks .
  • Art and propaganda in Nazi Germany . Explain how Nazi Germany used art and movies such as Triumph of the Will in its propaganda machine.
  • How WW2 changed attitude towards art and architecture. Tell about the main changes in architecture and art in the post-war period.
  • Explore Germany’s post-war culture. Explore the cultural landscape of West and East Germany after the war.
  • Discuss the cultural differences in North and South Korea after WW2. Show how cultures developed differently on different sides of the Korean peninsula.
  • Veteran narratives in WW2 literature: An examination of memoirs and fictional works. Analyze how veterans’ stories, whether based on personal experiences or fictionalized, contributed to the cultural understanding of the war and its enduring impact on society.

WW2 Essay Topics: Military

This section delves into military records. It offers diverse ideas, inviting you to explore the strategic and tactical facets of the Second World War’s unparalleled military campaigns and conflicts.

  • Which factors helped launch the German war machine? Explain the laws and decisions that made Germany the military powerhouse of Europe.
  • What gave the Japanese superiority in the Pacific Theater? Detail the tactics, strategies, and weaponry that helped the Japanese army wage war in the Pacific.
  • How the Lend-Lease Act helped the Soviet war effort. Show the significance of American aid in the USSR’s battles across the Eastern front.
  • Explore the main reasons for Italy’s military losses in Africa. Tell about the tactical and strategic factors that caused Italy’s defeat in Africa.
  • Compare the Soviet and German military in 1941. Give a rough comparison of the different army types both sides possessed at the start of their conflict.
  • Discuss the significance of operation Bagration. Describe the main results of Operation Bagration and its role in the liberation of Belarus and Poland.
  • Explore the results of the invasion of Normandy in 1944 . Explore the preparations, execution, and aftermath of D-Day .
  • Could Germany have won WW2 with nuclear weapons? Analyze a scenario when Germany got hold of WMDs before the war ended and its consequences.
  • Which military innovations spelled the turning point in the war? Tell about the most powerful weapons that helped the Allies win.
  • Explore the military tech that was pioneered during WW2. Describe the most remarkable military technology that was developed during the conflict.

🏆 Best WW2 Research Paper Topics

We hand-picked a collection of interesting topics that will make your research paper shine and inspire you to write a great thesis statement . These WW2 research paper titles explore economic transformation and scientific developments during this period.

3 Tips for your research paper.

WW2 Research Paper Topics: Economy

Amid the tapestry of 20th-century wars, World War II emerged as a pivotal economic challenge. We present various research paper topics delving into the war’s economic dimensions. Expand your general knowledge by exploring the profound impact of economics on the global stage during this transformative period.

  • What was the economic situation in Europe before WW2? Explore what the economy of European countries was before the war.
  • Explore the factors that led to Germany’s economic rise in 1932-1939. Tell how Germany rose to economic power despite the catastrophe of the Weimar Republic .
  • Discuss the causes of economic growth in post-war Japan . Describe laws and policies that caused the Japanese economic boom after WW2.
  • What were the main factors of US post-war prosperity? Explain how the US enjoyed decades of prosperity post-conflict through generous loans to the suffering parties.
  • Assess the impact of the war on the Italian economy. Describe the leading causes of Italy’s economic growth post-WW2.
  • Explain the leading causes of industrialization in the pre-war USSR. Tell about the major decisions and policies that led to the USSR’s rapid industrialization in the 1930s.
  • Discuss WW2’s impact on the developing world. Explore how the war impacted the developing countries outside the US and Europe.
  • Which policies were used to fund the reconstruction of the European economy? Assess policies that led to progress in rebuilding post-war Europe, including the Marshall Plan .
  • Explore the impact of war bonds on US military capacity . Showcase how war bonds were crucial in funding the US efforts in the Pacific and other war theaters.
  • How the USSR funded its war machine. Explore the sources used for building and maintaining the Soviet military capacity.
  • The global economic order and enduring issues: Post-World War II Bretton Woods Conference. Analyze how the decisions made at Bretton Woods, including the creation of the IMF or World Bank, continue to shape global economic policies and financial stability today.

WW2 Research Paper Topics: Science & Technology

Embark on a journey of historical research as we unveil captivating research paper topics in science and technology. You can explore remarkable breakthroughs, like innovations in the construction of planes.

  • Could the atomic bomb have been made without WW2? Explain how World War 2 impacted the process of the creation of the atomic bomb.
  • The role of German scientists in the NASA space program . Discuss the involvement of German scientists in various NASA projects, including the moon landing project.
  • Explore the impact of jet engine development on aviation . Show how the creation of jet engines changed military and commercial aircraft.
  • Discuss the impact of the first electronic computers made after WW2. Explore how the first ENIACs were used after WW2 and their influence on modern machines.
  • Assess the main scientific breakthroughs of the post-war period. Showcase the main innovations that came around after WW2.
  • How did WW2 influence the post-war automobile industry ? Describe the influence of the war on the car manufacturing business.
  • What were the leading causes of the American post-WW2 tech boom? Assess the main reasons behind post-war technological advancements in the US.
  • Did the invention of the atomic bomb prevent future major wars? Explore how nuclear weapons helped prevent future global wars but still couldn’t stop lesser-scale conflicts.
  • Discuss the importance of radar technology during and after the war. Show how radar technology was used during the war and beyond.
  • Explore the impact of WW2 on developing body armor technology. Talk about the influence of the war in developing sufficient body protection for police, military, and civilians.
  • Naval warfare in World War II: The role of technological advancements in shaping maritime strategies. Discuss how innovations reshaped naval tactics, affected maritime supremacy, and influenced crucial battles in the Pacific and Atlantic theaters.

📚 Top 8 WW2 Research Questions

  • Did the US decide to enter the war only after Pearl Harbor?
  • Who were the most important political figures during the conflict?
  • What were the main events that caused World War 2?
  • Which World War 2 battles were the most significant?
  • Why is D-Day a significant historical event?
  • Which countries participated in World War 2?
  • What was the strategic significance of the battle of Britain for the Allied powers in WW2?
  • When and how did World War 2 end?

✒️ Top 8 World War 2 Essay Questions

  • What are the most impactful technologies that came out after WW2?
  • Did the US play a major role in defeating the Axis powers?
  • Which countries had the worst casualty rates?
  • How were POWs treated by different sides?
  • How WW2 changed the world?
  • Is there one particular party to blame for the conflict?
  • Who lost World War 2?
  • How many lives were altered by World War II?

📝 Second World War Essay Examples

We have listed several essay examples to guide you and serve as real examples for your future work. They cover cultural, military, and political aspects in the aftermath of the war for the US and Japan. Each offers an extended response into what post-war societies looked like in these countries.

  • Cultural Changes in America after World War II This paper explores several things that defined the 1950s, including the budding civil rights movement, the baby boom, and the rise of anti-communist propaganda. These things shaped the cultural landscape, from arts and literature to music and movies.
  • American Power During World War 2 and the Cold War The essay centers around the height of America’s power after the end of WW2 and its inevitable clash with the communist ideology of the Soviet Union. It explores some less reputable tactics the US used to undermine the USSR’s influence on the world.
  • Japan and World War II Led by old rivalries with its neighbor China, Japan entered WW2 as a military powerhouse. The paper discusses its initial success in the war theater and the subsequent disastrous results.

🪖 World War 2: General Information You Should Know

Before you start working, it’ll be helpful to learn about the causes and consequences of World War II. These facts will help you better establish the theme of your future essay or research paper. Prepare to dive into one of the most critical periods and learn more about it.

World War 2: Significant Events

World War 2 was the biggest in the history of humankind. During over 2000 days of the conflict, several important events happened:

  • September 1, 1939 . Germany invaded Poland and started the war.
  • April 9 to June 22, 1940 . Most of Western Europe fell under German jackboots.
  • July 10, 1940 . Germany began a massive bombardment campaign in the United Kingdom.
  • September 22, 1940 . The signing of the Tripartite Pact and the birth of the Axis Powers.
  • December 7, 1941 . Japan launched the attack on Pearl Harbor.
  • December 8, 1941 . The US declared war on Japan.
  • December 11, 1941 . The US got into military conflict with Italy and Germany.
  • June 4 – 7, 1942 . America won the Battle of Midway .
  • July 9, 1942. The Allies invaded Sicily.
  • September 8, 1943 . Italy surrendered, but its northern territory was still occupied.
  • June 6, 1944 . The US launched a landing operation in Normandy.
  • August 25, 1944 . Allies liberate Paris.
  • December 16, 1944. Germany launched a counterattack known as the Battle of the Bulge .
  • February 19, 1945 . US Marines stormed Iwo Jima .
  • March 22, 1945 . American troops crossed the Rhine River.
  • April 1, 1945 . The US military arrived on the island of Okinawa.
  • April 25, 1945 . Soviet and American troops encircled Berlin.
  • May 8, 1945 . Germany surrendered to the Allies, ending the war in Europe.
  • August 6, 1945 . The US bombed Hiroshima with a nuclear warhead.
  • August 9, 1945 . America dropped the atomic bomb on the city of Nagasaki.
  • September 2, 1945 . The Japanese surrendered to the Allies.

World War 2: Crucial Facts

In this part, we present crucial facts about the war that shaped the world as we know it. Take a look at the most momentous events of this conflict:

The fact about Lend-Lease program created on March 11, 1941.

  • The war involved 30 countries.
  • It was the biggest war waged on the European continent.
  • Europe was rebuilt through the Marshall Plan, which invested $12 billion in its economy.
  • The Holocaust resulted in the death of almost the entire Jewish population in Europe.
  • Germany occupied most of Western Europe and a big part of the USSR.
  • Stalingrad became the turning point in the war for the Allies.

World War 2: Casualties

WW2 was one of the bloodiest conflicts in history , not even in military casualties. It was the first war that deliberately targeted civilians in various countries. Scientists and historians still can’t determine the exact number of deaths. Several countries paid the most horrific price in this conflict.

CountryMilitary lossesCivilian casualties
8,668,00017,000,000
3,000,00012,000,000
3,250,0002,050,000
240,0005,360,000

World War 2: Causes

Here, we highlighted the main factors that caused the global conflict and launched World War II. Take a look at its leading causes:

  • The unjust Treaty of Versailles . The leading cause of the war lies in the humiliating conditions Germany faced after WWI. Part of its territory was annexed, and the country had to limit its army seriously. The following 20 years of economic and cultural downfall became one of the factors for the rise of Nazism.
  • The failure of peace agreements. After WWI, there was a lot of hope for the League of Nations organization . Its main goal was ending wars and leading countries to solve their disputes diplomatically. Unfortunately, all of the efforts failed as military conflicts slowly but surely engulfed the world.
  • The rise of authoritarian movements. The failures of diplomacy and democracy in Europe made many nations abandon these principles. It caused the rise of many authoritarian governments in Spain, Italy, and Germany.
  • The formation of the Axis powers . In 1940, Italy, Japan, and Germany signed a political and military alliance, forming an anti-communist coalition of countries. They were the primary enemies of the Allies formed by France, the United Kingdom, Canada, the USA, and the USSR.
  • German aggression in Europe. Even before the official start of WW2, Germany conducted military operations on the continent. In 1938, it fully annexed Austria and took Sudetenland from Czechoslovakia in the autumn of the same year.
  • The Great Depression . The European economy was highly indebted to the US. Governments in Germany, Italy, and France couldn’t manage economic growth sufficiently. On October 29, 1929, the US suffered the crash of the New York Stock Market and recalled all foreign loans soon after.

World War 2: Consequences & Results

World War II had long-lasting consequences that changed the world. This segment examines the major social, political, and economic transformations caused by this event.

Consequences and results of World War 2.

  • End of the euro-centric international power structure. WW2 ended the hegemony of Western Europe. The United States became less isolationist and more involved in global affairs.
  • Start of the Cold War . After the Second World War, the US and the USSR became the leading political poles of the world. Both sides wanted to curb the spreading influence of their opponent.
  • The end of empires . WW2 saw the disbanding of the French, British, Dutch, Portuguese, and Belgian empires. Many of their former colonies became independent states.
  • Democratization of foreign policy . After destroying authoritarian regimes, the US turned to a more democratic foreign policy regarding its close and distant neighbors. It was greatly formed by local and world public opinion.
  • A movement for independence in many countries . The fall of European hegemony worldwide caused many of its former territories to struggle for independence . Most prominently, it gave birth to the state of Israel.

We hope you found the right topic in the sea of WW2 research paper topics we offer in this article. Be sure to use our examples and short guide. Share this article with friends who’ll find it helpful.

  • World War II in Europe. Timeline with Photos and Text. – The History of Place.
  • World War II Timeline Experience. – American Battle Monuments Comission.
  • Chronological Timeline of the War. – D-Day, Normandy and Beyond.
  • War in the Pacific. – Crown, New Zeland History
  • 6 Little Known Facts About WWII. – History, AETN UK
  • Human Cost of WWII: A Breakdown of Military and Civilian Deaths. – Kane Dane, Southwest Journal
  • World War II Fast Facts. – Cable News Network
  • World War II Fatalities By Country. – Kiegan Barron, WorldAtlas
  • What Caused Germany to Start Another War? – American Historical Association
  • International Relations Since 1945 (INTR-5106). Impact of World War II on Global Politics. – Adeel Hassan, University of Sargodha

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