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BEFORE YOU WATCH: The Fallen of World War II

Use the "Three Close Reads" approach as you watch the video below.

Before you watch

Before you watch the video, it’s a good idea to open and skim the video transcript. And always read the questions below so you know what to look and listen for as you watch.

While you watch

  1. What was the general profile up people who make up military deaths as opposed to civilian deaths?
  2. Where did the most Nazis die?
  3. What country lost the most casualties as a percentage of its population?
  4. Who lost the most soldiers and civilians in the war and why?
  5. Which side purposely targeted civilians during World War II? Give some examples?
  6. Was World War II the deadliest war in history?
  7. What does this video mean by “The Long Peace”?

After you watch

  1. To what extent does this video explain the causes and consequences of World War II?
  2. The video concludes that, since World War II, large conflicts have been less common and less deadly. How do you explain this trend?
  3. Do you think World War II was the most devastating event in world history? Why or why not?
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to watch. Remember to return to these questions once you’ve finished watching.

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