Why did the Soviets have the advantage at the Battle of Stalingrad?
1 Answer
The Red Army had a defensive position in an industrial, factory dense, area, full of big and strong buildings with a river (Volga) at their back.
Explanation:
The combination of a dense industrial area full of "natural" fortified defensive positions and the presence of a river at the back of the defenders (avoiding the possibility and "temptation" of a retreat) helped the defenders to build a formidable stronghold.
Also, the city became a propaganda and ideological themed fortress for the Soviet regime; the name itself, STALINgrad, forced the leaders of the Red Army to put in an "extra effort" in the defense. It is also true that it was one of the major victories of the Red/Russian Army of all times but their losses were staggering (more than
The Germans also "helped" in the process heavily bombing the area destroying any wooden building (useful in winter for shelter and as fuel for burning/heating) and transforming the factories in concrete and steel mazes of debrides and ruins full of strong and virtually impregnable fortifications.
