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What happened today in history?
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[ Dec 19 ]
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The 1939 Russian Assault on Summa: A Turning Point in the Winter War

Overview of the 1939 Attack on Summa

The Strategic Importance of Summa

The 1939 Russian air and ground attack against Finnish positions near Summa marked a significant moment during the Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union. Established as a strategic point near the Mannerheim Line, Summa was vital for the defense of Finland. Its loss could open the path for a Soviet advance toward key Finnish cities and infrastructure.

The Prelude to the Assault

The attack occurred amidst a backdrop of deteriorating Soviet-Finnish relations. The Soviet Union invaded Finland on November 30, 1939, under the pretext of securing its borders. Finland's fierce resistance was soon evident, culminating in fierce battles along the Mannerheim Line, including the engulfment of Summa.

The Attack Unfolds

The Assault Commences

On December 31, 1939, the Soviet forces launched a massive aerial bombardment followed by an intense ground offensive against Finnish positions at Summa. With overwhelming numbers and artillery support, the Red Army aimed to break through the Finnish defenses. The combined assaults were meant to crush Finnish morale and force a quick surrender.

Finnish Defenses and Countermeasures

The defenders at Summa, made up of Finnish troops that displayed remarkable resilience, utilized their knowledge of the terrain and guerilla tactics to hold off the Soviet advance for as long as possible. They established strong defensive positions and launching counterattacks that slowed down the progress of the much larger Soviet forces, highlighting the effectiveness of the Finnish military strategy.

Consequences of the Attack

Short-Term Outcomes for Finland

Although the assault on Summa was devastating, the determined Finnish resistance delayed the Soviets significantly. It became evident that the Soviet military, despite its size and equipment, faced unexpected challenges against Finland's defense tactics.

Implications for the Winter War

This engagement at Summa exemplified the broader challenges faced by the Soviet Union during the Winter War. Ultimately, the conflict would reshape military strategies and geopolitical boundaries in Northern Europe, as Finland continued to resist Soviet advances until the eventual peace treaty in March 1940.

Fun Fact

Summa's Role in Finnish Military History

The area around Summa later became symbolic for Finland's determined defense efforts. The term "Summa" is now often invoked in discussions about Finnish resilience and tactical ingenuity during wartime.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on the Winter War

For those interested in a deeper exploration of the Winter War and the attack on Summa, consider reading "The Winter War: The Soviet Attack on Finland 1939-1940" by William R. Trotter, which offers an in-depth analysis and firsthand accounts of the conflict.