In this episode of CSS Breakdown: Book by Book, Season 09, Episode 06, we delve into Chapter 6 of Norman Lowe's 'Mastering Modern World History (Fifth Edition).' This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the Second World War (1939–45), detailing its four distinct phases: the initial opening moves, the widening Axis offensive, the crucial period when Allied offensives held the Axis in check, and the eventual defeat of the Axis powers. We explore key events such as the swift German Blitzkrieg campaigns, the pivotal Battle of Britain, the monumental invasion of Russia (Operation Barbarossa), and the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that brought the USA into the war. The episode highlights critical turning points like the Battles of Midway Island, El Alamein, and Stalingrad, which decisively shifted the momentum against the Axis forces. Listeners will gain insight into the strategic importance of Allied air and naval power, the controversial Allied bombing campaigns against German and Japanese cities, and the complex reasons behind the Axis defeat, including their overextension, tactical mistakes, and the overwhelming combined resources of the USA, USSR, and British Empire. A significant portion of this episode is dedicated to understanding the horrific 'Final Solution' – the Holocaust – discussing its origins, the historical debates surrounding intentionalist and functionalist perspectives, and the systematic extermination of millions of Jews and other groups. Join us as we unpack the global scale of this conflict and its profound impact on human history.