Encyclopaedia Britannica Presents: WWII Infographic Explainers: Normandy Invasion, overview

In May 1944, Allied forces in the UK prepared for the Normandy invasion, delayed by weather until June 6th. Troops landed on five beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. Airborne units targeted key infrastructure. The German response was slow, partly due to deception tactics suggesting an attack at Calais. This allowed the Allies to establish a beachhead and expand it in the following days.

Which divisions were assigned to the beaches of Utah and Omaha during the D-Day invasion?

• US Fourth Division and US First Division

• British Third Division and Canadian Third Division

• Canadian Third Division and British 50th Division

• US First Division and British 50th Division

What was the primary objective of the Allied airborne troops during the D-Day invasion?

• To establish communication lines with the French Resistance

• To engage German armored divisions directly

• To provide air support for the naval forces

• To capture key railroad strong points, bridges, and artillery

Approximately how many Allied troops landed on the Normandy beaches on the morning of June 6th?

• 100,000

• 130,000

• 150,000

• 200,000

Why was the German response to the Allied invasion on D-Day relatively slow?

• They were expecting an attack at a different location

• They lacked sufficient manpower

• Their forces were engaged on the Eastern Front

• They were waiting for reinforcements from Italy

What was one of the reasons the Allies were able to expand their beachhead after the initial landings?

• The Allies received unexpected reinforcements

• The weather improved significantly

• The German armored response was delayed

• The German navy was defeated