Blitzkrieg
From the start of the second world war, Germany sought to avoid a long,drawn out conflict. In order to avoid a long war the Germans used a form of warfare known as " blitzkrieg" or "lightning war". German leaders planed to win the war through short campaigns in which they would focus offensive weapons, like tanks and artillery, along a narrow front until the enemy was overwhelmed and a breach was created in their defense. Once a breach was created, the Germans would sent tank divisions behind enemy lines causing disorder and confusion. Once behind enemy lines, German air power would attack strategic locations, preventing the enemy from reaching supplies. The enemy would have no choice but to sent troops to the front lines to seal the breaches, allowing Germany to circle the enemy and force surrender. Blitzkrieg tactics allowed Germany to successfully capture Poland, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Yugoslavia, and Greece. Although blitzkrieg seemed successful at first, it was not enough to win Germany the war once a second front was opened against the Soviet Union.
Source
. "Blitzkrieg (Lighting War)." www.ushmm.org. N.p., 11 2012. Web. 28 Nov 2012. <http://www.ushmm.org/wlc/en/article.php?ModuleId=10005437>.
Source
. "Blitzkrieg (Lighting War)." www.ushmm.org. N.p., 11 2012. Web. 28 Nov 2012. <http://www.ushmm.org/wlc/en/article.php?ModuleId=10005437>.