On May 8, 2025, the world commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, a significant milestone marking the defeat of Nazism and Fascism. This date, known as Victory Day, is celebrated in various forms across Europe, with France leading the way in honoring the sacrifices made during the conflict. The surrender of Nazi Germany was signed in Berlin at 11:01 PM on May 8, 1945, just days after Adolf Hitler's suicide, and it marked the conclusion of six brutal years of warfare that claimed approximately 55 million lives, both military and civilian.
In the lead-up to this anniversary, a variety of new literature has emerged, providing insights into the war's causes and consequences. Eight notable books have been released that delve into different aspects of this monumental conflict and its lasting impact. Keith Lowe's "O medo e a liberdade" examines the transformation of the world post-war through the eyes of survivors and analyzes the geopolitical, economic, and social reconstruction that followed. Lowe's work illustrates how the war's legacy continues to shape contemporary global dynamics, including ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the rhetoric of current leaders.
Howard Zinn's "A bomba" offers a poignant reflection on the motivations behind the use of atomic bombs during the war, particularly the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. Zinn, who served as an American bomber during the conflict, presents a compelling argument against the brutalities of war, questioning the ethics of the bombings in light of Japan's imminent surrender.
Imre Kertész's "Ausência de destino" is a deeply personal narrative that recounts the author's experiences as a survivor of Nazi concentration camps, detailing the horrors he faced in Auschwitz and other labor camps. Kertész's work emphasizes the importance of fiction in conveying the unimaginable suffering of the Holocaust.
Meanwhile, Martin Gilbert's "A Segunda Guerra Mundial – A História Completa (vol. 2)" continues his detailed account of the war, picking up the story in 1943 and leading up to the final battles in Europe and the Pacific. Gilbert's meticulous research sheds light on the strategic decisions made by Allied forces and the lingering issues that arose in the war's aftermath.
Alba de Céspedes' "Na voz dela" explores the struggles of women in early 20th-century Italy against a backdrop of fascism. The novel tells the story of a young woman's resistance to societal norms and her involvement in the anti-fascist movement, highlighting the role of women in the broader fight against oppression.
Marcio Pitliuk's "O urso que caçava nazistas" tells the gripping tale of a young Ukrainian who fought back against the Third Reich, showcasing the bravery of individuals who resisted during one of history's darkest times. This narrative emphasizes the resilience of those who stood up against tyranny.
Eric Kurlander's "Os monstros de Hitler" examines the bizarre intersection of occultism and pseudoscience within Nazi ideology, revealing how these beliefs influenced their military strategies and perceptions of enemies. Kurlander's research illustrates the dangerous consequences of intertwining superstition with political power.
Lastly, Kazuo Ishiguro's "Uma visão pálida das colinas" presents a narrative set in post-war Nagasaki, focusing on the lives of Japanese women as they navigate the complexities of rebuilding their lives and their city after the devastation of the atomic bomb.
As nations reflect on the significance of May 8, President Donald Trump has declared it "Victory in World War II Day" in the United States, a move that has stirred both support and controversy. Trump emphasized the pivotal role of the U.S. in achieving victory, stating, "The victory was achieved mainly thanks to us, like it or not." He noted that American military might was central to defeating the enemy and that without the U.S., liberation would not have occurred. However, he clarified that this day would not be a federal holiday, as Veterans Day in November already serves to honor those who served in both World Wars.
While the U.S. acknowledges this significant day, other European nations have varying traditions regarding the commemoration of the end of World War II. For instance, Russia celebrates Victory Day on May 9 due to the time zone difference when the surrender was signed. In Germany, the day is observed with somber reflection rather than celebration, acknowledging the atrocities committed during the war.
In Belgium, there is a growing movement advocating for the reinstatement of May 8 as a day of celebration, as the country currently unifies its commemorations of both World Wars on November 11. This push is led by a coalition of historians and civil society members who believe that acknowledging May 8 is vital in the face of rising far-right sentiments across Europe.
As the world marks this anniversary, the complexities of remembering and honoring the past are evident. The lessons learned from World War II remain crucial in understanding current global conflicts and the importance of vigilance against the ideologies that once led to such devastation. The newly released literature serves as a reminder of the war's enduring impact and the ongoing need to reflect on the past to shape a better future.
