The Battle of Smolensk took place from July 10 to September 10, 1941, during World War II. It was a significant conflict between the Nazi German forces and the Soviet Red Army as part of the larger Operation Barbarossa. The battle aimed to capture the city of Smolensk, which was a strategic point for advancing towards Moscow. The battle resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, with the Germans eventually encircling and capturing the city. Despite the loss, the Soviet forces managed to delay the German advance, allowing time for the Soviet military to regroup and prepare for future defenses.