World Events · 1939
1939: The Descent into Global Conflict
The fragile peace in Europe completely shattered in 1939 as Nazi Germany invaded Poland, plunging the world into the devastation of the Second World War. Meanwhile, groundbreaking scientific warnings and iconic cultural achievements marked a tumultuous year of transition.
- September 1, 1939 | Military Conflict
Nazi Germany Invades Poland
German forces crossed the Polish border in a violent blitzkrieg, sparking the official outbreak of the Second World War in Europe.
- August 23, 1939 | International Diplomacy
Signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact
Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union shocked the world by signing a non-aggression treaty containing secret plans to partition Eastern Europe.
- April 1, 1939 | Political Revolution
Conclusion of the Spanish Civil War
General Francisco Franco declared total victory for the Nationalists, establishing a decades-long military dictatorship over Spain.
- November 30, 1939 | Military Conflict
Outbreak of the Winter War
Soviet troops invaded Finland following refused territorial demands, initiating a fiercely fought arctic conflict.
- August 2, 1939 | Nuclear Physics
The Einstein–Szilárd Letter to FDR
Albert Einstein signed a letter urging President Roosevelt to initiate atomic research before Nazi Germany could develop a nuclear bomb.
- April 30, 1939 | Social & Cultural
Opening of the New York World's Fair
Millions gathered in Queens to glimpse 'The World of Tomorrow,' celebrating technological optimism on the eve of war.
- September 16, 1939 | Military Conflict
Soviet Victory at Khalkhin Gol
Red Army forces led by Georgy Zhukov decisively defeated Japanese troops along the Mongolian border, securing Russia's eastern front.
- December 15, 1939 | Cinema
Premiere of 'Gone with the Wind'
David O. Selznick's epic historical drama debuted in Atlanta, quickly becoming one of the highest-grossing films in cinematic history.
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