The Battle of Stalingrad, from August 23, 1942, to February 2, 1943, was a major event during World War II on the Eastern Front. This battle was a huge defeat for the German Army, and it changed the course of the war.

Key Facts:

1. Casualties:

   • The Soviet Union faced about 1.1 million casualties. This included around 478,000 soldiers who were killed or went missing and over 650,000 who were wounded.
   • The German Army had around 850,000 casualties, with about 300,000 killed, injured, or captured. Their loss led to the surrender of the German 6th Army, which had about 300,000 soldiers.

2. Why Stalingrad Was Important:

   • Stalingrad was an important industrial city by the Volga River. It also carried a lot of meaning because it was named after Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.
   • Both sides wanted control of the city and its nearby areas because they were critical for supplies and resources.

3. A Major Turnaround:

   • Before Stalingrad, the Axis powers (which included Germany) were winning many battles in Eastern Europe and moving closer to the Volga River.
   • The Soviet victory at Stalingrad stopped this progress and began a series of successful attacks by the Soviets.

Operation Uranus:

• On November 19, 1942, the Soviets launched Operation Uranus. This was a plan to surround the German troops in Stalingrad.
• This operation used over 1.1 million Soviet soldiers, more than 1,400 tanks, and 1,500 planes.
• By trapping the German 6th Army, this operation led to their surrender, which greatly weakened the German forces on the Eastern Front.

What Happened After the Battle:

1. Change in Direction:

   • After Stalingrad, the Soviet Union switched from defending to attacking. This marked the start of a winning streak for the Soviets.
   • The Red Army had successes in 1943, like the battle at Kursk, pushing German forces back into Eastern Europe.

2. Mental Effects:

   • The defeat at Stalingrad broke the idea that the German Army was unbeatable. It boosted the spirits of the Soviet soldiers.
   • This battle became a powerful symbol for Soviet propaganda, showcasing the bravery and determination of the Red Army.

In conclusion, the Battle of Stalingrad was a major military loss for Nazi Germany and a turning point in the Eastern Front. The successful defense by the Soviets and their counterattacks changed the balance of power, ultimately leading to the defeat of Axis forces in Eastern Europe. This battle is remembered as a symbol of Soviet strength and a significant moment in World War II.