World Remembers Second World War 80 Years After End

As the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II is commemorated, there is renewed reflection on the war's complexities and its legacy. One critical perspective highlights how China and Russia's vital roles in defeating fascism are often overlooked or misrepresented in Western narratives, with the war's timeline frequently limited to 1939–1945, neglecting earlier aggressions by Japan and Italy. Meanwhile, contemporary concerns about global stability echo the fragile post-war peace, with experts warning that multipolar tensions and weakened international institutions raise the risk of another major conflict, potentially a World War III. Regionally, VE Day celebrations in the UK capture personal memories and diverse impacts of the war, with many recalling both the relief of victory in Europe and the ongoing hardships until Japan's surrender. Additionally, demographic shifts in the U.S. post-WWII, fueled by government support for veterans through the GI Bill and home loans, contributed to increased geographic and economic mobility, particularly in urban areas. These varied reflections underscore the enduring significance of World War II in shaping historical understanding, current geopolitics, and societal changes.