World War II: The European Theater

President Roosevelt is concerned that if Stalin defeats Hitler alone, he might dominate Europe. To prevent this, Roosevelt sends American forces to Sicily, marking the first major U.S. operation in Europe. Led by General Patton, the Allies capture Sicily, setting the stage for further attacks. On September 3, 1943, Allied forces invade mainland Italy, gradually taking control city by city. Mussolini's empire begins to collapse, and Italy eventually surrenders to the Allies. This marks the fall of the first major Axis power, leaving Hitler aware that the Allies are closing in on him.

Why did President Roosevelt want to get American forces into Europe quickly?

• To avoid conflict with Japan

• To establish trade routes

• To support Mussolini's regime

• To prevent Stalin from conquering Europe alone

What was the primary objective of the Allied invasion of Sicily?

• To test new military technology

• To negotiate peace with the Axis powers

• To establish a base of operations for further attacks

• To capture Mussolini

Who led the American forces during the invasion of Sicily?

• Admiral Chester W. Nimitz

• General Douglas MacArthur

• Lieutenant General George S. Patton

• General Dwight D. Eisenhower

What significant event occurred on September 3rd, 1943?

• The Axis powers surrendered

• The Allies moved into mainland Italy

• The United States declared war on Germany

• The Allies invaded Normandy

What was the impact of the Allied advance into Italy on Mussolini's regime?

• It led to a peace treaty with the Allies

• It resulted in Mussolini's promotion

• It caused Mussolini's empire to begin crumbling

• It strengthened Mussolini's power

What was Mussolini instructed to do after his emergency meeting?

• Negotiate with the Allies

• Flee to Germany

• Hold the line

• Surrender to the Allies

What happened less than two months after Mussolini's emergency meeting?

• Italy surrendered to the Allies

• Mussolini was promoted

• The Allies retreated from Italy

• Germany surrendered to the Allies

Which major Axis power was the first to fall to the Allies?

• Italy

• Hungary

• Germany

• Japan

How did Adolf Hitler react to Mussolini's downfall?

• He ignored the situation

• He sought an alliance with the Allies

• He knew the Allies were coming for him next

• He celebrated Mussolini's achievements