October 23 – November 11, 1942Reputable source · 2 sourcesWell documented
The Second Battle of El Alamein
On the timeline · around October 23 – November 11, 1942 ·
What happened
In the Egyptian desert, General Bernard Montgomery's British Eighth Army launched a set-piece offensive against the Axis forces of Erwin Rommel, opening with a massive artillery barrage on the night of October 23. After nearly two weeks of grinding attrition, the Axis line broke and Rommel was driven into a long retreat westward.
Why it matters
El Alamein was the turning point of the North African campaign and the first major British land victory over the Germans, safeguarding the Suez Canal.
Sources
- Imperial War Museums. A 5-Minute History Of The Second Battle Of El Alamein · General source
- National Army Museum. Second Battle of El Alamein · Reputable source