Georgy Zhukov
Marshal of the Soviet Union, pivotal military strategist in WWII.
Chronology: 1896-12-02 – 1974-06-18
Origins & Early Life
Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov (1 December [O.S. 19 November] 1896 – 18 June 1974) was a Soviet military leader who served as a top commander during World War II and achieved the rank of Marshal of the Soviet Union. During World War II, Zhukov served as deputy commander-in-chief of the armed forces under leader Joseph Stalin, and oversaw some of the Red Army's most decisive victories. He also served at various points as Chief of the General Staff, Minister of Defence, and a member of the Presidium of the Central Committee of the Communist Party (Politburo).
Pivotal Works & Achievements
Born to a poor peasant family near Moscow, Zhukov was conscripted into the Imperial Russian Army and fought in World War I. He served in the Red Army during the Russian Civil War, after which he quickly rose through the ranks. In summer 1939, Zhukov commanded a Soviet army group to a decisive victory over Japanese forces at the Battles of Khalkhin Gol, for which he won the first of his four Hero of the Soviet Union awards. In February 1941, Stalin appointed Zhukov as chief of the General Staff of the Red Army. Following the German invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941, Zhukov lost his post as chief of staff after disagreeing with...
Enduring Legacy & Impact
The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.
Source: Wikipedia