Online Class: World War ll

World War II was a conflict like no other in human history. Everything that had made the First World War such a monumental event was soon eclipsed by the colossal scale and impact of the next.

Self-Paced, Online Class
Library Subscription
 
  • 17
    Lessons
  • 42
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 16
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.6
    CEUs
  •  
    Video Audit
    Available
 
 

Course Description

World War II: A Profound Exploration of the Conflict that Redefined Humanity

World War II was not merely a chapter in history; it was an era that redefined geopolitical landscapes, human rights ideologies, and the limits of human resilience. While the First World War had indeed set precedents in terms of scale and devastation, World War II transcended those boundaries. With a participation of over 100 countries, and directly involving more than 100 million personnel, it was, and remains, the most extensive war in history.

Advancements in technology during this period were staggering. We moved from horses and bayonets to tanks and jet fighters, from rudimentary grenades to nuclear weapons. The sheer firepower available meant not only larger battlefields but also deadlier consequences.

The juxtaposition of good versus evil, as portrayed by the Allies against the Axis Powers, had an almost cinematic feel. Germany, Japan, and Italy, with their aggressive ideologies and expansionist agendas, posed a tangible threat to the world's equilibrium. And resisting them was no small feat. The Allies, which included major powers like the USA, USSR, and the UK, were pushed to the brink of their resources and resolve.

Why did this war erupt, though? The signing of the Treaty of Versailles, post World War I, aimed to bring about long-standing peace. However, its reparations and territorial changes brewed resentment in Germany. Coupled with the global repercussions of the Great Depression, particularly its severe ramifications in Germany, the situation was ripe for extremist ideologies to take root. This provided fertile ground for Adolf Hitler's rise, subsequently leading to the formation of the Axis.

Germany's blitzkrieg tactics saw them annex significant portions of Europe, catching many nations off guard. Concurrently, Italy made moves in North Africa, and Japan was annexing islands in the Pacific, seeking to establish its dominance.

Yet, the significance of World War II extends beyond the battles and treaties. The war's aftermath brought about tectonic shifts in global politics and strategies:

  1. Nuclear Age: The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ushered the world into the atomic age, highlighting the potential of human-led devastation.

  2. Israel's Birth: The post-war scenario facilitated the establishment of Israel, a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern politics.

  3. Communism's Spread: Many regions in Asia and Europe witnessed the rapid proliferation of communist ideologies.

  4. Germany's Division: Post-war Germany was split, symbolizing the broader Cold War tensions.

  5. America's Ascendancy: The US, having played a crucial role in the war, emerged as a dominant global power.

Our course offers an in-depth analysis of these events and more. A breakdown of our curriculum:

  • Lessons 1 & 2: Introduce key terminologies and course structures, setting the foundation for upcoming modules.

  • Lesson 3 to 5: Delve into the root causes, tracing back to the fall of the Weimar Republic and discussing the major Axis powers.

  • Lessons 6 to 13: An exhaustive study of the major battles, from the opening salvos, through Europe, North Africa, and the Pacific, to the ultimate victories.

  • Lesson 14: Unmask the harrowing truths of the Third Reich's horrors.

  • Lesson 15: Investigate the profound global implications post World War II.

  • Lessons 16 & 17: Learn about the pivotal figures on both sides of the war, understanding their motivations, strategies, and legacies.

World War II wasn't just a conflict; it was a transformative period that has shaped the contours of our contemporary world. Dive deep into the intricate web of events, decisions, and consequences with our comprehensive course, understanding the human stories interwoven with grand global narratives.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.6 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(1,838 votes)
  • Lesson 1: Terminology, Part I

    Lesson 1: Terminology, Part I
  • Lesson 2: Terminology, Part II and Course Structure

    Lesson 2: Terminology, Part II and Course Structure
  • Lesson 3: Setting the Stage: The Fall of the Weimar Republic

    Lesson 3: Setting the Stage: The Fall of the Weimar Republic
  • Lesson 4: Adolf Hitler's Life & Career

    Lesson 4: Adolf Hitler's Life and Career
  • Lesson 5: The Other Axis Powers: Italy and Japan

    The Other Axis Powers: Italy and Japan
  • Lesson 6: Opening Salvos & Germany Starts the War

    Opening Salvos; Germany Starts the War
  • Lesson 7: The Phoney War

    Lesson 7: The Phoney War
  • Lesson 8: The Battles of France and Britain

    Lesson 8: The Battles of France and Britain
  • Lesson 9: The North African Campaign

    Lesson 9: The North African Campaign
  • Lesson 10: The Eastern Front

    Lesson 10: The Eastern Front
  • Lesson 11: The Italian Campaign

    Lesson 11: The Italian Campaign
  • Lesson 12: The Pacific Theatre

    Lesson 12: The Pacific Theatre
  • Lesson 13: The End of the War: Victories in Europe and Japan

    Lesson 13: The End of the War: Victories in Europe and Japan
  • Lesson 14: The Horrors of the Third Reich

    Lesson 14: The Horrors of the Third Reich
  • Lesson 15: The Aftermath of World War II

    Lesson 15: The Aftermath of World War II
  • Lesson 16: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Axis

    Lesson 16: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Axis
  • Lesson 17: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Allies

    Lesson 17: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Allies
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define World War II terminology.
  • Summarize setting the stage for war: The Fall of the Weimar Republic.
  • Summarize Adolph Hitler's Life and career.
  • Summarize the other Axis powers.
  • Describe the Phoney War.
  • Summarize the battles of France and Britain.
  • Describe the North African Campaign.
  • Summarize the Eastern Front, Italian Campaign, and the Pacific Theatre.
  • Summarize the end of the War.
  • Summarize the horrors of the Third Reich.
  • Summarize the aftermath of World War II.
  • Summarize prominent figures of World War II.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: World War ll
Course Number: 7550440
Lessons Rating: 4.6 / 5 Stars (1,838 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is online and available in all 50 states including: California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, and Washington.
Last Updated: September 2023
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 1.6 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus

Student Testimonials

  • "The range of topics discussed in this course was very helpful in understanding the 3 main theaters of World War II." -- Gabrielle M.
  • "I was blown away by the amount of information given in 17 lessons! I would love to take a class just on the Holocaust. Thank you for putting this together. Very well done ! :)." -- Christianne M.
  • "I have loved this course. Mac is so helpful and fun to learn from. He has made learning history fun for the first time in my life. He gives great feedback to my assignments which I haven't really experienced on here before. By far the best teacher in the forum! Thanks so much!" -- Nicola P.
  • "This class was extremely educational, organized and very detailed. The assignments were thorough and thought-provoking, and encouraged critical thinking." -- Leigh T.
  • "This course is excellent. Mac is a great proctor of the class. His feedback on multiple emails has been really interesting and enjoyable. I would recommend this course to anyone who is interested in learning more about World War II." -- Brian M.
  • "I found this class to be very helpful. The structure was effective and did a good job ensuring that I learned, despite being an online course. The structure seemed very effective." -- Chris M.
  • "The instructor was very helpful!!!" -- Lisa M.
  • "Great course! The video was most help. Also, the professor graded and commented on my tests quickly." -- John L.
  • "I felt like I was able to connect easily with this instructor. The feedback from the instructor was very helpful. I enjoyed hearing from him and reading his comments on the written assignments. He was extremely well versed on the subject matter and enthusiastic on all topics included. Thanks for everything! " -- Stacey M.
  • "Good instructor." -- Robert P.