Georgy Zhukov : the Soviet western front

Abstract

The general aim of this dissertation is to analyse the battles that took place on the Soviet Western Front between the years of 1941-1945, in which Georgy Zhukov had some sort of involvement in. In order to be able to achieve this, research was primarily done on the works of the memoirs of Georgy Zhukov in their original 1969 publication as well as the analysis of available archival documents that are related to the battles the Marshal participated in. A keen eye was also kept on the publications of historians and other generals who have something to say about the man in question. The first chapter will take a look at the general structure and status of the Red Army before the beginning of the war through the looking glass of Georgy Zhukov. The second chapter will explore the advancements of the enemy powers and the battles that the USSR was constantly losing. The third chapter will look at some of the more uncomfortable truths of Soviet military history. The fourth and final chapter will briefly explore the years of enemy forces’ retreat. I would like to thank all my course mates who morally provided me with the support needed to undertake such a task. I would also like to thank the support and help provided by my family, who offered some guidance and help in translation of select works.