Monthly Archives: October 2021

World War Two Student Journals

World War II Simulation Student Journal: Japan

Japan 8 1938

With conflict rising, I sense it is only a short matter of time until the outbreak of a second world war. However, if and when it happens, as President of Japan, I can assure you we will be prepared–we have been. Leading up to this moment, we have pushed the limits of the Allied Powers in which they have proven their own gullibility. We have been working and training tirelessly to improve and grow our territory and troops. Allies, I am afraid you are too late. You should’ve stopped us Axis Powers a long time ago. Although we have proven to be a force to be reckoned with, our thirst for power and improvement doesn’t stop there. Our next move is the remains of Asia. Specifically, we have our eyes on South China, the French-Indo territory, and the Eastern-Indies. Their militaries don’t stand a chance against our high-ranked army and navy. This should make attacking and assuming control a breeze. With the possession of these territories under our belt, we will further mobilize into these regions, allowing us access to the resources we desire: Oil, iron, coal, and rubber. If we are able to get our hands on these prized resources, there’s no telling how unbeatable our industry will be! 

Japan 8 1939

It is official: The second World War has formally kicked off. While we stand against the remaining, corrupt forces in Europe, as President of Japan, I stand confident that they are no match for our strong, military forces in which we hold great numbers of troops. Not to mention, our mindful strategy. The only thing holding our powerful nation back is our lack of natural resources. However, a quick annex of the East Indies contributed as a milestone on the path to fixing this problem–all according to plan. With control over the rule of this territory, we assumed all of the resources with it. Overall increasing both coal and iron deposits by a hugely 13 units! Before, we held so much untapped potential. These resources were the key to unlocking it as we were able to industrialize and modernize, improving the damage we could do. Following the Eastern Indies, China had been in our field of view for conquest next. China occupied the heart of Asia. Had we been able to wipe out the Chinese, we would hold the power of Asia in our hands under Japanese rule. Therefore, we proceed to attack and defeat both French-Indo and North Central China. While they carried the numbers to put up a battle, the Chinese were simply unable to hold back the river in which our troops were. In addition to the conquering of land, we began moving and mobilizing troops westward. With this strategy, we will be able to corner the enemy and wipe out the Chinese, giving us all of Asia. 

Japan 8 1940

Another day of war brought another day of conquering. Our trend of expanding west seems to be bringing us great success. Our well-thought out movement of troops into our new land of North Central China benefited us immensely. With reinforcements nearby, we were able to conduct battle in South Central China. While the battle paved out to be a little too close for comfort as allied forces called for backup, we were still able to pull through victorious. With both the north and south central territories of Asia under our wing, we were more than prepared for the land along the west coasts of Asia that would come next in our plan. Specifically, the territory of North West China which lacked a ruler, making them an easy target. However, other war casualties and conflict distracted our ficus from China. Instead, the United States demanded our attention. The U.S. has been the only roadblock in our country’s goal of Asian pacfici unity for years. However, they made up for being a nuisance by supplying us with the oil we strived for. Desperate for peace, the Americans have begun posing rising tension and conflict with us by threatening to cut off our supply if we don’t do as they wish. Japan will NOT stand for this. No foreigners will control us in that aspect. Something needs to be done about the U.S. and fast before they are able to mobilize and grow out of our control…

Japan 8 1941

1941–an eventful year to say the least. The year began like any other with our victorious streak of power and war wins remaining. With plans to conquer all China, if not all of Asia, our first strategic move began with the land of Burma. A quick defeat Burmans gave Japan and the rest of the Axis Powers a leg up as we inherited their stock of oil. With an increase in oil, we were able to innovate and produce more mass amounts of machinery and weaponry to assist our military in the war. This set us on the perfect route towards the remaining unconquered land toward the western parts of Asia. However, before expanding in that direction, we figured it was time to cut the puppet strings in which the Americans were playing us by for once and for all. It was now or never before the U.S. became too strong of an opponent for us. While the bombing of Pearl Harbor in the Pacfic was a victory in our books, looking back, this was the first mistake to set not only the Japanese, but our allies on a downward spiral. Once peaceful Americans became outraged and officially joined the war later that year…unfortunately on the wrong side–the Allies. Suddenly the confidence we Axis powers once flaunted had decreased as the amount of resources and power the Americans had became a reality. While our ego was fading, the Allies were not. Russia built up the nerve to come for our Manchukuo territory. A quick defeat allowing them access to even more land. Next, they halted our troops in Koreas and took it with ease. The war has just taken a hard right turn in the wrong direction. 

Japan 8 1942

Just when I thought things couldn’t get worse, the events to come in the year of 1942 proved me wrong. The previous year had been a wake up call for our nation of Japan. While our allies began to hang their hands in sorrow and defeat, Japan was resilient and refused to give in just yet. While they may have what once belonged to us, Manchuko and Korea, they were wrong if they think they’d be able to expand any further. To halt the ally enemies, we stocked up our troops in surrounding countries to ensure the heart of Asia would remain in our hands–especially our homeland of Japan in which was guarded with extra precaution and even greater armed forces. With certainty over the security of our territories, we shifted our focus to a new region. A region beyond what we thought was possible at first. In fact, a region beyond Asia: the Urals. The Urals had seemed like an easy target as there were no other nations mobilized within it, as well as no nearby nations strong enough to stand a chance against us. Had we been able to make it the Urals, there’s no telling what we couldn’t do! The Urals were rich in both iron coal…areas where we lacked. Therefore, attaining these resources would boost both our industry and rank. From there, we’d even be able to expand as far as the Caucasus and sweep their large collection of oil as well. The most difficult part of this plan is to safely get to the Urals. From there, everything had seemed as easy as pie. Our first step in our plan was small yet strategic in avoiding tipping off our plans to the enemies. For one second, we shifted our focus from Burma into the neighboring country of India. In that small second, we had become vulnerable. Those wretched Allies stunned each and every surrounding country containing Japanese troops, and took Burma right from under our noses. Things had just got even more difficult. Before carrying out our goal of the Urals, we would now have to backtrack from Burma. Great. 

Japan 8 1943

This year was an action packed year full of redemption and emotions for us Japanese. Following a losing streak from the previous two years, it was time for us to turn the tables in this war. Saying we are annoyed by the Allied Powers would be an understatement. However, we channeled this inner anger as fuel to the fire, motivating us to do everything within our power to make a comeback–and that is exactly what we did (kind of). As president of Japan, I made the executive decision to go after the Americans yet again. They want to cut off our supplies? Fine. Two can play at that game. I ordered our naval forces to focus on the Philippines, an easy victory as we outnumbered and overpowered U.S. forces in this area. While we didn’t gain any resources from this territory, it felt awesome to stick it to the Americans. It also helped us accomplish and check another objective off our list. This important victory restored our hope and confidence we once beared, making us feel unstoppable. I’ll even admit, it may have boosted my ego. In fact, it had even influenced our next plans in getting revenge. Sparing a few troops from South Central China, we nearly captured both Tibet and reclaimed Burma! Our huge win over the Allies at Burma was especially important in increasing our oil supply. However, not everyone was happy to see us succeed as we were. Disgusted and I think jealous, the Americans just couldn’t keep our name out of their mouth. Out of embarrassment, they halted their plans in Europe. Instead, they were too busy fighting our navy in the Central Pacific, and strategizing to get ahold of Hawaii once again. Meanwhile, we had bigger problems to worry about than the U.S. A growing Russian army was beginning to get a little too close for comfort. We feared they would begin closing their way in on our Chinese territories…and even worse, our homeland of Japan. As a result, we spread our troops from the middle of Asia to the outermost parts. They would have to get through this wall before getting to the heart. 

Japan 8 1944

After the previous, action packed year of 1943, it made 1944 seem like a bore. With few, safe options on the offensive left, we chose to take the defensive route this year. Had we made any attempt to acquire new land, it would have just resulted in a suicde mission as we were no match for the thousands of high-ranked Sierians surrounding us. In addition, one single small mistake could lead to the ultimate downfall and defeat of Japan. Stacking our troops, we shifted our military around to protect our land. In particular, our mainland of Japan. A defeat here would hurt most, like a shot to the heart. Suddenly, our plans had shifted from the divide and conquer strategy. It became more than just accomplishing our objectives. Our priority now was simply staying alive. With an increase in industrialization in the Siviet Union, there’s no telling how powerful their military forces are now–and I don’t want to find out either! While it hurts me to admit, I’m not sure we would be able to hold off their troops. But we would sure put up a fight trying! And that is exactly what we plan to do to play out the rest of this war! 

Japan 8 1945

1945, a true tragedy… But not for us!!! Victory is ours!! Similar to last year, with little conquerable land left in Asia, we played it safe, choosing to take the defensive route once again. Korea had seemed attainable, yet wasting our troops there would expose our mainland of Japan. Plus, I don’t mean to brag, but we had already doubled, nearly tripled our own territory! It was simply not worth it. America, getting a little too big for their bridges, began moving in on Australia with hopes of moving their way up north towards Asia. If this was supposed to be an intimidating factor, it wasn’t a very good one. Our wall of defense had proven to be a difficult barrier to break. Meanwhile, with communication with our fellow allied Axis Powers across sea, we encouraged them to go big or go home. That is exactly what they did to help us win the war! With little time, resources, and troops left, the allies grew frantic. Our allies, Germany took advantage seizing eastern Europe territories. With nothing left to defend, the war had officially been called off. I couldn’t believe it! 1945 will be a year that will remain in history! People will be talking about it forever! It was the year of the underdogs! The year when even through all of the betrayal and doubt, Germany, Japan, and Bulgaria pulled through with a win. World War II Simulation

World War One Student Journals

WWI Simulation Student Journal: United States

United States, Period 8, 1913

A war just broke out between Austria-Hungary and Serbia. It is in my best interest to lay low and not be in the middle of this breakout. If needed, my naval troops can bring support for the Allies. However, I intend not to move any of my troops to fight against countries during this war. To ensure that this happens, I need to make peace agreements with both the allies as well as the central powers in class tomorrow. Another decision that needs to be made is whether or not I should mobilize our army. By doing this, it will allow me to get more troops available for the future, but might cause tensions to arise within other countries. 

United States, Period 8, 1914

Tensions are starting to arise as countries are starting to make secret alliances with each other, with whispers about going to war. I quickly began to put my plan into action. I secretly made an alliance with both the Allies and the Central Powers, allowing peace from the United States. Even though I made plans of peace, I made the decision to mobilize my troops. I need to be prepared for anything that may happen, and the Allies will be able to use my troops in a couple of years when needed. My country’s industrialization is striving during time, which made the decision of staying out of this war very easy. The Central Powers just announced war, and are taking over land from the Allies, staying true of our alliance together. During this time, the Allies are moving their navy troops to create a more dominant sea force, as well as moving their army troops to a more secure area to insure protection for their capitals. I need to be ready to move my navy troops to help the Allies if another war breaks out in the future, however it would be best to not move any of my troops until 1917. 

United States, Period 8, 1915

As more land is being taken and conquered by other countries, the more time is running out for my country’s peace. I plan on talking more to Great Britain as well as France tomorrow during class. I want to insure our alliance, and begin a battle plan. I want to touch base with them to see how many troops of mine that they will need. I also need to make sure that I don’t move my troops until 1917, which is when they plan on going to war. The longer that I wait to use my troops in war, the better outcome for my country. The Allies were able to maintain their control of Serbia after the attack from the Central Powers, which means they are gaining more power and more troops for future attacks. This will be beneficial to me because in the end, I will side with the Allies. Furthermore, if they gain more power, so will I. 

United States, Period 8, 1916

I’m on edge as Great Britain pulls me into a secret meeting, especially after the announcement of peace with the German leaders as the Austria-Hungary president takes over Germany’s power. This was shocking at first, however this move was beneficial to me. With the German leaders gone, that is less leaders for me to negotiate with, let alone one less leader that I have to face after I break my promise of peace with the Central Powers. However, this could also be bad for the United States and the Allies in the future as well. As Austria-Hungary’s leaders gain the power of Germany, they can manipulate and control thousands of troops for their benefit. Putting this aside, in my meeting with Great Britain we agree to align together to help take Germany’s territory. Furthermore, France and I were able to come to the conclusion that in order to win this war, I need to move all of my troops into F1 of France’s capital. This will ensure that we will be able to have enough troops to move around wherever needed, to conquer Germany’s territory within the next year. 

United States, Period 8, 1917

The Central Powers are quickly moving their troops towards Russia, in hopes of taking the capital. As Russia successfully defended their country, we quickly needed to move our troops to prepare for battle. I made the decision to move all of my troops using the British navy to land in France’s capital. To prepare for future battles, I also made the decision to move my navy across to the North Sea Zone. By doing this, my chances of attacking Germany were a lot higher than if I would have left my navy in the Atlantic Ocean. However, my alliance and I are in a tough position. We can’t move our troops through Belgium due to the inability to negotiate a common agreement to pass through their country. Another option that we are considering is to move our troops through Ardennes Forest. The problem with doing this is that we are only able to move 1,000 of our troops through there at a time. If we did this, Germany’s troops would overpower our 1,000 troops, and we would be unsuccessful in conquering their land. The only other option that we have left, is to move our troops to Italy’s capital to provide support in attacking Austria-Hungary. If we are able to conquer parts of Austria-Hungary, we would easily be able to move our troops through that land to attack Germany. 

United States, Period 8, 1918

The German and Austrian troops are closing in on us. They have found a way to conquer Serbia and Romania by moving in all of their troops for battle. Although we lost land, this was beneficial for us by having them lose a great number of troops that would have been used to block my alliance from attacking Germany. We need to quickly move my troops from the capital of France, and march them down to the capital of Italy instead. If the Allies get enough troops down to Italy, we would be successful in conquering A1 of Austria-Hungary. If we are able to conquer this land, I would be one step closer to attacking Germany’s territory. 

Halt! We are under attack by the German navy in the North Sea Zone! My troops need to stay strong during this battle to keep our stance near the German capital. We have a great chance of losing this battle due to the German navy being stronger than ours. 

As I predicted, we lost all of our naval troops in the battle against Germany. Even though we lost most of our naval troops, this can be used to our advantage. If the Germans attacked our navy in the North Sea Zone, that means that Germany thinks we are using the sea to get to their territory. If they believe we are attacking their capital, they will stabilize most of their troops in G1. By doing this, they will leave G2 with very little troops for defending. 

As the end of the year is closing in, we are still under attack from the Central Powers. The Central Powers are trying to invade parts of Italy, being unsuccessful due to the great amount of imbalance in the troops. Given the number of troops that the Central Powers started this year with, I am proud of how far the Allies have gotten and how many troops we were able to take out. At the end of this war, I am proud to be apart of the Allies!