The Battle Stalingrad was a major turning point in World War 2 on the Eastern Front. The victory gave the Soviets a psychological lift and military initiative. It was fought during the winter of 1942-1943, and Stalingrad was Russia's center of communications and manufacturing. It was also won the of the last defenses of Moscow, and the Nazis' goal was to capture it quickly and move on before the harsh winter arrived. The Germans moved swiftly through the city but the relentless Russian's held until the winter, forcing the Germans into full retreat.