Watch Inside World War II

Inside World War II is an eight-part documentary series produced by National Geographic that takes viewers on a journey through the depths of World War II. It premiered in 2012 and was narrated by Jamie Effros. The series delves into the intricacies of World War II by focusing on several key aspects of the conflict. These include the war in North Africa, the Battle of Stalingrad, the battle for the Pacific, the Allied bombing campaign, the Nazi death camps, the Holocaust, and the liberation of Europe. The show provides an in-depth look at the military strategies employed by both the Allied and Axis powers and the impact these strategies had on the outcome of the war.

The series features a range of interviews with historians, military experts, and survivors of the war, as well as archival footage and reenactments. The first episode, entitled "The Desert War," examines the North Africa campaign and the role of legendary British commander, Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery, in defeating German General Erwin Rommel. The episode also features interviews with veterans of the campaign on both sides.

In the second episode, "Stalingrad," the series focuses on the brutal battle that took place in the city of Stalingrad between the German Army and the Soviet Union. It explores the human toll of the battle and the horrific conditions faced by soldiers on both sides. The episode also delves into the strategic importance of Stalingrad and its impact on the course of the war.

The third episode, "Jungle War," looks at the battle for the Pacific and the intense fighting that took place on remote islands such as Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima. The episode examines the US strategy of "island hopping" and the tactics employed by the Japanese defenders.

In "The Air War," the series explores the impact of aerial bombardment on the outcome of the war. The episode looks at the strategic bombing campaign carried out by the Allies and its impact on civilian populations. It also examines the development of new technologies such as radar and the use of fighter planes.

The fifth episode, "The Battle for Italy," looks at the Italian campaign and the Allied push to liberate Italy from German occupation. It examines the challenges faced by the Allies as they fought their way up the Italian peninsula and the role of Italian partisans in the campaign.

In "The War in the East," the series focuses on the brutal war between Germany and the Soviet Union. The episode looks at the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union and the atrocities committed by both sides, including the massacre at Babi Yar. It also examines the Soviet response to the invasion and the eventual defeat of the German Army.

In "The Liberation of Europe," the series explores the end of the war and the Allied push to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation. The episode looks at the Normandy landings, the Battle of the Bulge, and the eventual defeat of Germany. It also examines the impact of the war on civilians and the challenges faced by the Allies in the aftermath of the conflict.

Finally, in "The Final Solution," the series looks at the Holocaust and the Nazi's genocidal campaign against Jews, Roma, and other groups. The episode examines the development of the death camps and the horrors faced by those imprisoned there. It also looks at the efforts made by the Allies to bring the perpetrators of the Holocaust to justice.

Overall, Inside World War II is a comprehensive and compelling series that provides a detailed look at one of the most consequential events in human history. It combines expert analysis with first-hand accounts and powerful archival footage to bring the realities of the war to life.