World War II (1939–1945)

World War II was a global war that lasted from 1939 to 1945. The war involved the many of the world's countries. Two opposing military alliances were formed: the Allies and the Axis.

While Japan was already at war with China in 1937,  the Second World War began on September 1, 1939 when Nazi Germany invaded Poland. Germany conquered much of Europe, eventually forming the Axis alliance with Italy and Japan. Approximately six million European Jews were killed by Adolf Hitler's Nazi Germany and this event would become known as the Holocaust.

 

Within this Collection

Major Thomas Dry Howie | S.C. Hall of Fame

Video

This is the story of Major Thomas Dry Howie from Abbeville, South Carolina, who survived the assault on Omaha Beach on D-Day during World War II only to be killed as he liberated the French town of...
Senator Strom Thurmond | S.C. Hall of Fame

Video

James Strom Thurmond (December 5, 1902—June 26, 2003) served 48 years as United States Senator from South Carolina. He was Governor of South Carolina from 1947-1951 and ran for President in 1948 as...
William Farrow | S.C. Hall of Fame

Video

This is the story of William G. Farrow from Darlington, South Carolina, who was one of 80 volunteers who flew on the infamous Doolittle Raid during World War II. After bombing Japan only four months...
John A. Warren | Legacy of Leadership Profile

Video

John A. Warren (1925-2009) John Warren retired as chairman and chief executive of SCANA Corporation in January 1990, but 18 months later he was working again, as chairman of the South Carolina State...
General William C. Westmoreland | S.C. Hall of Fame

Video

This is the story of General William C. Westmoreland, an Eagle Scout from Spartanburg County who earned medals for bravery in World War II and became a Four-Star General and the Military Commander of...
General Jacob Edward Smart | S.C. Hall of Fame

Video

Jacob E. Smart served with the legendary General "Hap" Arnold in World War II, planning the daring bombing raid "Operation Tidal Wave". During the Cold War General Smart became an important leader in...
John A. Warren | Legacy of Leadership Interview

Video

John A. Warren (1925-2009) John Warren retired as chairman and chief executive of SCANA Corporation in January 1990, but 18 months later he was working again, as chairman of the South Carolina State...