“…The fifth in the "Why We Fight" series of seven army information films, "Battle for Russia" gives the brief history of Russia and the wars fought on her homeland. …”

“…Duration: 01:23:00 The fifth film in Capra's Why We Fight series, nominated for an Academy Award as Best Documentary, celebrates the spirit of the long-suffering Soviet people as they heroically repulse the Nazi invasion threatening their homeland. Tracing their history of war with Germany to the 13th century, it depicts the bitter struggles for Moscow, Kiev, Leningrad, and Stalingrad, and the effects of their winters on would-be conquerors from Napoleon to Hitler.…”

“…It reminds its viewers of Germany's history of aggression, under "Führer Number 1" Otto von Bismarck, "Führer Number 2" Kaiser Wilhelm II and "Führer Number 3" Adolf Hitler. …”

“…Although they clearly do not provide a sophisticated, detailed and detached analysis of history, the "Why We Fight" series is a good place to look for the authentic film footage of the time, some of it quite rare, as well as for an excellent example of government-sponsored war propaganda.…”

“…Extensively using Japanese feature films, newsreels and filmfootage, Capra presents a sweeping history of the Japanese people and their culture, from Shintoism, to social structure, to emperial family and martial arts. …”

“…The film opens with children pledging allegiance to the flag, visits Lexington and Valley Forge, surveys the militant and idealistic history of the United States before embarking on a catalogue listings of states and nationalities contributing to the war effort. …”