What are the dates that World War II is recognized as occurring?

The dates recognized for World War II span from August 2, 1939, to September 2, 1945. This timeframe accurately reflects the start and end of the conflict. The war officially began with the invasion of Poland by Germany on September 1, 1939, leading to widespread military engagement, and it concluded with the formal surrender of Japan on September 2, 1945, following the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August of that year.

This recognition of the war's duration is critical for understanding its historical context, which impacted global politics and society profoundly. The other options provided either reference different conflicts or do not encompass the entire duration of World War II, illustrating that only the specified dates accurately capture this significant period in history.