Stalingrad

Stalingrad was the name used for the Russian city now known as Volgograd from 1925 to 1961.

Stalingrad was the name of the Russian city now known as Volgograd, used from 1925 to 1961. Located on the Volga River in southern Russia, it became the site of the Battle of Stalingrad during World War II, one of the largest and deadliest battles in military history. The city was renamed Volgograd in 1961 as part of de-Stalinization.

History

Stalingrad was the Soviet-era name of the city now known as Volgograd, adopted in 1925 and named after Joseph Stalin. The name was replaced in 1961 during de-Stalinization.

World War II

The city became internationally famous during the Battle of Stalingrad, fought between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. The battle is widely regarded as one of the largest, deadliest, and most decisive of World War II, and is described as a turning point on the Eastern Front.

Renaming to Volgograd

In 1961, the city was renamed Volgograd as part of de-Stalinization, reflecting the Soviet policy of removing Stalin's name from major place names. The new name refers to the Volga River.

Legacy

Stalingrad remains a powerful historical symbol because of the scale of destruction and the Soviet victory there. It is frequently cited in histories of World War II and urban warfare. The city received the title of Hero City for its wartime defence.