Britain's Role in the War Against Germany 1939-45

Britain's Role in the War Against Germany 1939-45

Britain had a very important role during World War II. It was the

longest allied country in the war and was able to give many

contributions to ensure Hitler’s fall.

Britain’s influence started on the 3rd of September, with the German

invasion of Poland. Britain and France declared war on Germany. Why

was this special? Because this gave Hitler an enemy in the west. In

fact Hitler was surprised by this turn of events, expecting Britain to

stay out of the conflict. Hitler was very fond of the British and

wanted to be her ally. By doing this bold act, it showed that there

will be people how will stop Hitler from world domination.

However, later in the campaign the British suffered defeat after

defeat. Despite sending troops to Norway, to defeat the Germans

conquering Norway in 1940, they proved to be ineffective and had to

retreat. In the same year, the B.E.F (British Expeditary Force) were

in full retreat from the German guns, tanks and planes. Over 300000

had to leave France via Dunkirk. Despite what the newspapers said, the

British army was running away from the superior German army, leaving

behind their guns, tanks and the rest of their equipment on the shores

of France.

However, France, USSR and USA made little, if no contribution to the

war at this stage. France was quickly defeated by German forces, and

while resistance still continued, the Germans still had a good time in

France. The USSR was allied to Germany at this time and helped the

Germans conquer Poland, and expanded Soviet terriority in eastern

Europe. And while the USA did give aid to Britain, the Battle of the

Atlantic and the lack of any main direct conflict between Germany and

Britain (i.e. an invasion of Europe) meant that the arms were of

little use.

But later in the war, Britain gained more and more significance in the

war. The “End of the Beginning” (Winston Churchill) was the defeat of

Axis forces in North Africa in 1942.