In Charts: WW2
A collection of charts, graphs and maps exploring the Second World War.
75 years ago, the Second World War in Europe came to an end. It left a continent devastated and its consequences are still being felt today.
To commemorate VE Day, we present our chartroom on the conflict — its causes, its effects and its terrible human toll.
How many people died?
Belarus has the highest percentage of the population that died — 25%
How many people did the war displace?
40 million — the worst refugee crisis in history
What was the bloodiest battle?
Stalingrad — it caused almost 2 million casualties
What was the biggest amphibious invasion?
D-Day (Operation Overlord) is the biggest amphibious invasion in history
What were the deadliest air raids?
The air raids on Hamburg killed 43,000 people
How many unexploded bombs are still being dug up?
The UK still disposes of dozens of bombs every year — mostly German
How many people died in the Holocaust?
14 million — including 6 million Jews
How informed are people about the Holocaust?
Less than half of Americans know how many Jews died
How much did the war cost?
It cost the U.S. almost $5 trillion — more than the current GDP of Germany ($3.9 trillion)
How many tanks were produced during the war?
The U.S. and the Soviet Union produced over 200,000, Germany 46,000
Which country do people think won the war?
Most Americans think it was the U.S., most British think it was Britain
How many American WW2 veterans are there?
It is estimated that approximately 10,000 will remain alive by 2030
