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Abstract

Project Mentor(s): Melissa Jordine, PhD

The German Army was diminished after the string of unbroken victories at the start of Operation Barbarossa. The loss of men and machines had become undeniable, and it sapped the offensive strength of their order of battle. The supply lines were at a breaking point and the underdeveloped road and rail system in Russia further exacerbated the problem. The diversion of strength to encircle and capture Kiev cost the Germans precious time before they could restart the offensive. The weather hindered the movement of men and machines and despite the protests of the commanding generals to high command, they were told to press on. The Russians faced the most mobile, technologically advanced army in the world. They were able to survive long enough to learn the lessons necessary to defeat the German strategy in the Battle of Moscow. It was steadfast leadership of Zhukov and his innovative tactics along with the unwavering Soviet civilian and soldier and their sacrifice that ultimately led the Red Army to victory. The Soviet Army was helped by the defense to the last man of many units, and gained the time necessary to complete defensive fortifications around Moscow. This also gave the Russians time to organize new reserve armies and to produce the much-needed equipment to turn to the offensive.

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