Caen's role in the D-Day landings

Caen was a vital objective for the Allies during the D-Day invasion because capturing the city would open the way into inland France and help break through German defenses. Although Caen was targeted on June 6, it was heavily fortified and German forces resisted fiercely, making rapid capture difficult. Its importance lay in its strategic location, hills, and transportation routes, which were crucial for moving Allied troops and supplies. The Battle of Caen became a prolonged siege, and its eventual capture in July was key to the success of the Normandy campaign and the broader effort to liberate France from German control.