Describe the role of the Soviet Union in World War II.

The Soviet Union played a crucial role in World War II. Initially, the Soviet Union signed a non-aggression pact with Nazi Germany in 1939, known as the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. However, in 1941, Germany broke the pact and invaded the Soviet Union, leading to the Soviet Union joining the Allied forces.

The Soviet Union's contribution to the war was immense. They fought against the German invasion on the Eastern Front, which became the largest and bloodiest theater of the war. The Soviet Union's military, known as the Red Army, played a pivotal role in defeating the German forces. They engaged in major battles such as the Battle of Stalingrad, which marked a turning point in the war.

The Soviet Union's industrial capacity was also crucial in the war effort. They produced vast amounts of weapons, tanks, aircraft, and other supplies, which helped sustain the Allied forces. Additionally, the Soviet Union provided significant manpower, with millions of soldiers fighting on the front lines.

Furthermore, the Soviet Union's leadership, under Joseph Stalin, played a key role in coordinating the Allied strategy. Stalin attended major conferences with other Allied leaders, such as the Tehran Conference in 1943 and the Yalta Conference in 1945, where important decisions regarding the post-war world were made.

Overall, the Soviet Union's role in World War II was instrumental in the defeat of Nazi Germany. Their military prowess, industrial capacity, and leadership contributed significantly to the Allied victory and the ultimate outcome of the war.