40 Photographs Capturing the End of World War II in Europe
On May 8, 1945, Germany conceded World War II and the world celebrated.
On May 7, 1945, Germany surrendered to the Allied Forces, ending World War II in the West. The next day, parades marched, kisses flew, beer flowed, and the globe erupted in celebration. Though the Pacific theater continued to rage until August, the Third Reich's collapse was enough of a reason to take a deep breath and dance in the streets. Here, a glimpse into this pivotal 20th century moment, photos snapped on the first "Victory in Europe Day."
While stationed in London, England an American solider sits down to read the day's paper headlined, "Germany Surrenders."
No flag went unwaved on V-E Day in London's Piccadilly.
Servicemen and citizens rejoice by way of riding a truck through the streets of London.
Thousands gather in London's Trafalgar Square to celebrate the end of Britain's involvement in World War II.
Crowds filled with both servicemen and civilians celebrate the defeat by marching down the Champs Élysées waving banners and flags.
Mrs. Pat Burgess of Palmers Green, North London striking a legendary "we won!" pose.
Winston Churchill making his V-E Day broadcast. "God bless you all," he sad. "This is your victory! It is the victory of the cause of freedom in every land. In all our long history we have never seen a greater day than this. Everyone, man or woman, has done their best. Everyone has tried. Neither the long years, nor the dangers, nor the fierce attacks of the enemy, have in any way weakened the independent resolve of the British nation. God bless you all."
A van passing through Piccadilly Circus. The statue of Eros, protected during the war by billboard advertisements, can be seen in the background. See, not all ads are bad.
A group of policeman struggle to keep the boisterous crowds back, as a mass of people ascend on Parliament Square in London.
A group of women dress in outfits representing the allied countries—the United States, France, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union—for a V-E Day celebration.
Members of the Women's Royal Army Corps wave the Union Jack flag as they drive their service jeep through the streets of London.
Residents in South London get creative with the table arrangement for their V-E Day celebration.
A group of overjoyed Londoners hold up peace signs while celebrating in the streets.
A victory street party takes place near Clapham Common, London.
The flags of Russia, France, China, Great Britain, and the United States are hoisted inside Paris' famous Arc de Triomphe following the surrender announcement.
British soldiers celebrate their victory—and the fact that they'll be returning home soon—by waving a British flag in the streets of Paris.
Thousands gather on the Champs-Élysées avenue, in front of the Arc de Triomphe.
Patients at Horley Military Hospital, all severely wounded in France and Italy, celebrate V-E Day with nursing staff.
Princess Elizabeth, Queen Elizabeth, Winston Churchill, King George VI, and Princess Margaret wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
A Home Guard soldier waits outside Buckingham Palace for a medals presentation.
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