1945: one of the most important years in modern history. Encompassing not only the celebration of peace and an end to the Second World War, but also the devastating first use of nuclear weapons and the long shadow cast by such destruction.

In this landmark publication, Anthony Richards tells the story of this momentous year through IWM’s unique collections, using personal testimony and rarely seen imagery to consider the wide-ranging experiences of that 12-month period. From continued fighting through North-West Europe, South-East Asia and the Pacific to the liberation of concentration camps, while encompassing the postwar desire for reconstruction, repatriation and justice, 1945: A Visual History guides readers through this year of unprecedented change, which laid the foundation for the modern world.