World War II timeline: On what date did Germany begin its offensive against France (via the Low Countries)? Identify the exact start date of the German invasion of France in WWII. Choose the correct date.

What is being asked?The precise date Germany launched its attack on France in WWII.

Given data

• The attack on France began after the war had already started in Europe.

Concept/ApproachDifferentiate between the outbreak of WWII (Poland, 1 Sept 1939), declarations of war (3 Sept 1939), Operation Barbarossa (22 June 1941), and the Western offensive against France and the Low Countries.

ReasoningGermany launched the Western offensive (Fall Gelb) on 10 May 1940, moving through the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg toward France.

Common pitfallsChoosing 1 Sept 1939 (Poland) or 22 June 1941 (USSR offensive), which are different campaigns.

Final Answer10 May 1940