Battle Of Kokoda Research Paper

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The significance of the Battle of Kokoda in WWII. The Kokoda Battle was fought between July and November 1942 and was one of the most important military engagements in World War II for Australia and the Allied Forces in the Pacific. This essay evaluates the significance of the Battle of Kokoda through its strategic importance, the conditions the soldiers underwent, and its wider implications for the Pacific War. The battle prevented the Japanese from capturing Port Moresby, which would have allowed them to launch further assaults on Australia and disrupt Allied supply lines. The harsh conditions of the battle tested the resilience and endurance of the Australian soldiers. The broader implications of the battle include its contribution to the …show more content…

Today, most believe that Japan wouldn’t have invaded Australia. But back then, everyone believed that that was their intention, Australia had already been previously threatened by the Japanese forces through the bombing of Darwin, Broome and Townsville as well when they attacked Sydney Harbour. Port Moresby was an extremely important tactical position due to its airfield. The port could have served as a base for launching amphibious operations, as it was very close to Australia. Japan had recently conducted similar operations in other regions at comparable distances from Port Moresby to North Queensland. Thus, Australia's defence of Port Moresby, achieved through the Kokoda Track campaign, was of utmost significance in protecting the nation. Bill Edgar notes this in his book Warrior of Kokoda ‘In relation to the direct security of the nation, no Australians have fought more important battles than those who struggled through the Papua’s Owen Stanley Rand during August and September 1942’ (Warrior of …show more content…

During the first four months of World War II in the Pacific theatre, Allied countries and territories suffered substantial losses. Japan had gained the upper hand in the region, capturing vast territories, occupying multiple countries, and taking thousands of prisoners. During the war, both Allied and Japanese forces saw the Territory of Papua as an important location due to its close proximity to both Australia and Asia. The Japanese considered Port Moresby a strategic point to launch aerial attacks on northern Australia. The successful defence of the Kokoda Track prevented Japan from capturing Port Moresby, a crucial target that would have opened the door to further attacks on Australia and possibly changed the balance of power in the South Pacific. By stopping the Japanese advance, the Allied forces protected vital supply lines and bases, which were critical for future operations in the

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