Today in History

What happened today in history? Important events, births and deaths.

18 June 2025

The appointment of Wilhelm Keitel as Chief of the Supreme High Command of the German Army

Historical Significance and Background

The event that took place in 1940 represents a crucial appointment made to strengthen control over the German army during World War II. Wilhelm Keitel was appointed to the head of the German High Command (OKW) by Adolf Hitler. This appointment marked a significant turning point in the course of the war.

In 1940, the world was in the grip of war. With Germany's attacks on Poland, France, and other European countries, World War II was in full swing. During this challenging period, Germany began making changes in high command positions to more effectively manage its army.

Development of the Event

Appointment of Wilhelm Keitel

On June 18, 1940, Adolf Hitler appointed Wilhelm Keitel as the head of the German High Command. After assuming this role, Keitel played a significant role in the strategic planning and implementation of the German army. He was actively involved in planning many military campaigns during World War II.

Progress of the War

Under Keitel's leadership, the German army engaged in many crucial battles throughout World War II. Events like Operation Barbarossa, the Battle of Stalingrad, and the Normandy Invasion demonstrated the impact of Keitel's command authority on the course of the war.

Consequences and Impacts

Wilhelm Keitel's appointment as the head of the German High Command influenced the course of the war. In the short term, it had a significant impact on the coordination and strategic planning of the German army. In the long term, it affected the outcome of the war and played a role in Germany's defeat.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present

Wilhelm Keitel's appointment as the head of the German High Command marked a significant turning point in the historical process of World War II. Today, this appointment is being studied as a crucial subject in war history, and in-depth analyses are being conducted on war strategies.

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Historical Significance and Background


The event that took place in 1940 represents a crucial appointment made to strengthen control over the German army during World War II. Wilhelm Keitel was app...

The appointment of Wilhelm Keitel as Chief of the Supreme High Command of the German Army 1940 took place in

The appointment of Wilhelm Keitel as Chief of the Supreme High Command of the German Army happened in Germany

The appointment of Wilhelm Keitel as Chief of the Supreme High Command of the German Army is a historically significant event that 1940 marked an important turning point in world history