Sections:

The War in Europe, Page 7

A Growing Threat

With superior military tactics, the Germans soon conquered most of Europe. Hitler set his sights on extending his new empire into North Africa under the military leadership of such men as General Erwin Rommel.

Erwin Rommel
General Erwin Rommel

The campaign in Africa began in August 1940 when the Germans invaded North Africa. In November 1942, the British were finally able to achieve a key victory at El Alamein in Egypt under the military leadership of General Bernard Montgomery.

North Africa
Map of North Africa.

Another decisive Allied victory would follow only a few days later, this time with both American and British forces led by General Dwight D. Eisenhower. The troops landed in Morocco and Algeria. By May 1943, they were able to successfully trap Rommel’s forces, leading to a massive surrender of German and Italian forces.

El Alamein, Egypt
Map and location of El Alamein, Egypt

El Alamein Cemetery
El Alamein War Cemetery.