World War II which dates to the 20th century was the most difficult and terrible period for the mankind. Fascism born in Germany and Italy kept under danger not only those countries but also the entire world.
During World War II Azerbaijani people demonstrated courage and heroism both in the frontline and in back front. A battalion of 87 destroyer-plains and 1,224 self-protecting groups were established in the country in short timeframes.
Over 600,000 Azerbaijani young fellows and girls were sent to the battle ground in 1941-1945. Divisions from Azerbaijan moved from the Caucasus to Berlin.
About 1,300 Azerbaijanis were awarded a title of Hero of the Soviet Union and 30 were conferred Order of Honour. About 170,000 Azerbaijani soldiers and officers were awarded different orders and medals of the USSR. Hazi Aslanov was twice conferred a title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Other Heroes of the Soviet Union from Azerbaijan include Israfil Mammadov, Ruslan Vezirov, Adil Guliyev, Ziya Bunyatov, Geray Asadov, Melik Maharramov and Mehdi Huseynzadeh, army generals Mahmud Abilov, Akim Abbasov, Tarlan Aliyarbeyov and Hajibala Zeynalov. All those who fought with courage in the war brought honour to the history of our people.
The country's economy was fully directed to the front. Light and food industries started to work for front. In a short period of time Baku became an important arsenal of fighting army. Despite all difficulties, oil workers worked hard and managed to supply the front and the economy with fuel.
New technology that produced aviation petrol was established under supervision of Academician Yusif Mammadaliyev. Oil production in Azerbaijan reached its peak in 1941 at 23.5 million tons due to hard work of Azerbaijani oilmen. The figure equaled 71.4 percent of overall oil production in the USSR. Azerbaijani oil workers handed over 75 million tons of oil and 22 million tons of petrol to the country during war years. Thus, Azerbaijani oil was one of the main factors in the victory over the fascism. Four of each 5 warships, tanks and motor cars worked with Azerbaijani petrol.
World War II well demonstrated heroism and courage of the Azerbaijanis.