Research Question

Question:
What was the reasoning behind the intentional air raids and subsequent decimation of the cities of Dresden and London in World War II?


What I will have to learn: 
To answer my question without relying on speculation will require a fair deal of research. I will have to look at military logs, historian perspectives and really look at this situation from both sides. The trouble I foresee is not finding information on the bombings, but legitimate reasons for their occurrence. I do not believe I will get the same reason twice, so I will probably have to take their common themes and work from there. If I can find them, personal reactions and motivations concerning these events would shed light on any personal or societal vendettas, which could shed light on possible ulterior motives. I hate time consuming work Mrs. Knechel.

1. I know my fair share about WWII, and I know about the fire bombings of Berlin and London, but I have never explored them or their motives. These attacks, as well as the nuclear bombings of Japan, signify the transitions from Military to Civilian targets. The unwarranted killing of innocents IS illegal and considered a war crime, yet no one was ever prosecuted.

2.
http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/blitz.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombing_of_Dresden_in_World_War_II

3. What happened at Dresden? Would the early phases of the Battle of Stalingrad fit my parameters for militaristic foul play? How can I link war crimes to human rights violations?