Normandy landings
1944 · Normandy, France · World · Modern
The Allies stormed five beaches, then established and expanded the beachhead.
Belligerents
Allies
- Commanders
- Eisenhower, Montgomery
- Strength
- About 150,000 troops landed on the first day, with about 7,000 ships
Germany
- Commanders
- Rommel, Rundstedt
- Strength
- "Atlantic Wall" defenders
Background
To catch Nazi Germany in a pincer, the Allies planned Operation Overlord, the largest amphibious landing in history.
Course of the battle
- AirborneParatroopers dropped inland at night to seize bridges and key points.
- Storm the beachesThe Allies stormed five beaches, including Omaha.
- BreakthroughAfter securing the beachhead they pushed inland.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 1944 |
|---|---|
| Place | Normandy, France |
| Result | The Allies stormed five beaches, then established and expanded the beachhead. |
| Winner | Allies |
| Casualties | The Allies suffered about 10,000 casualties on the first day; the German defenses were torn open. |
| Territorial change | A second front opened in Western Europe, and Germany now faced enemies on both sides. |
Impact
It opened the Western Front and hastened the downfall of Nazi Germany.
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