Contribution to Victory

Exhibition dedicated to the 75th anniversary of Victory
in World War II

The Second World War, which began on September 1, 1939, was a difficult test for humankind. Despite their previous differences, the Soviet Union, Great Britain and the United States fought together against Nazi Germany and its allies.

Louisville during World War II

During World War II, the Louisville, Kentucky area threw itself into war production. Existing facilities were put to new uses and new factories were built to accommodate new production. Louisville’s contribution was primarily in the areas of vehicles (including airplanes), artillery and related products, and rubber.

Molotov (Perm) during World War II

Despite the fact that no fighting took place in the city of Molotov (the name of the city of Perm from 1940 till 1957), the city did not avoid the hardships of wartime. Tens of thousands of Perm residents joined the Red Army, many of whom died or were listed as missing. Dozens of organisations, hundreds of thousands of people, and many cultural institutions were evacuated to the city from areas occupied by enemy forces. Hospitals were opened for wounded soldiers in the city, and residents of Molotov performed a labour feat daily.

Oxford during World War II

Britain declared war on Germany on 3rd September 1939 when Hitler, having failed to keep his promise not to attack Poland, invaded that country at the beginning of September. Immediately there were many preparations for war, but for seven months there was no actual fighting. A special force was sent to France to help on the French eastern frontier in May 1940, but the campaign was a disaster; the British forces had to retreat to Dunkirk, where they were rescued by large and small boats and taken back to England. Air battles over Britain began in July 1940, between the Royal Air Force and the Luftwaffe.