However, the arrival of German forces, led by Rommel, in February 1941 dramatically altered the situation. The British responded by launching an offensive in the Western Desert, which was successful in pushing the Italians back into Libya. The North African Campaign in World War II began in 1940, when Italian forces invaded British-controlled Egypt from Libya. The Axis powers, led by Germany and Italy, wanted to capture Egypt to control the Middle Eastern oil fields and cut off Britain's supply lines to India and the Far East. The British Empire had established a military presence in Egypt to protect the Suez Canal, a vital sea route connecting Europe and Asia. During World War II, Egypt was a strategically important location for both the Allied and Axis powers. The Battle of El Alamein was fought in the deserts of Egypt, which had been under British control since 1882. Historical Background of the Battle of El Alamein The battle at El Alamein was a crucial victory for the Allies, it boosted their morale and helped to turn the tide of the war in their favor. Taking place in the North African desert from 23 October to 4 November 1942 in present-day Egypt, the final battle was a turning point in the war as it marked the first major defeat of German forces on land during World War 2. The main battle of El Alamein marked a showdown between two legendary commanders: British General Bernard Montgomery and German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, known as the Desert Fox.īritish POWs El Alamein North Africa 1942 ![]() ![]() The battle of El Alamein, fought in two phases from July to November 1942, was a significant turning point in the war, marking the first major defeat of the Axis powers in Africa and halting their advance towards the Suez Canal.
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