01-27-2016, 03:14 PM
(01-27-2016, 02:13 AM)Sociopathicsteelerfan Wrote: 3. The constant shifting of objectives in the beginning of Barbarossa. Every German general worth his salt recognized Moscow as the prime objective of the initial invasion. Far beyond it's symbolic value as the capital of the USSR and the industrial value of it's nearby industry is the real reason for it's status as a must capture point. It was the rail, and thus logistical, hub for the entire USSR. Without Moscow the USSR was instantly cut apart into smaller, isolated, fiefdoms completely incapable of supporting or reinforcing each other in any way. The capture of Moscow, which very nearly happened anyways, was made impossible by Hitler's constant diversion of forces to far lesser targets. Quite simply, the Germans take Moscow and WW2 is unwinnable on the European continent for the allies.Good point, but I disagree with your ultimate conclusion. Germany was just trying to take over too much area too quickly.
Just because a country captures enemy territory that does not mean it does not have to spend significant resources keeping that territory under control. It is easy to exploit captured territory for raw resources, but it is not easy to harness an enemy work force and make them manufacture goods to support the war effort.
