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General Overview
The Libyan campaign took place during Word War Two and was part of the North African Campaign which took place from 10 June 1940 to 13 May 1943. The fighting in North Africa took place in Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria and Morocco. The North African desert includes blistering temperatures during the day and cold nights which made life uncomfortable for soldiers. The desert terrain and conditions resulted in the adaptation of equipment. For example motor vehicles and aircraft used in desert warfare need special oil filters and the barren ground meant that supplies for military operations had to be transported from outside and over great distances. The Libyan Campaign produced a range of different perspectives regarding strategy, conditions and the impacts of war.
For more information visit the Participants and Historians Perspectives page.
Significance
The Libyan campaign is of historical significance as it was of strategic importance for both the Western Allies and the Axis powers. The Axis powers wanted to prevent the Allies access to Middle Eastern oil supplies and in turn securing their own access to oil. The Libyan campaign gave the Allies an opportunity to open up a new front against the Axis, after the disastrous defeat in Western Europe in spring 1940. This served as a way to ease German pressure on the Eastern Front. However primarily the Libyan Campaign was part of the North African fight for resources and “it was in this arena that the conflict would be won or lost.” The struggle for supplies was an essential part of warfare in the Second World War; however it is often overlooked by the fighting which took place in Europe. Therefore the Libyan Campaign is a significant area of study and should be recognised.
For information on the significance of this campaign see the pages: Prior to Campaign, The Events of the Libyan Campaign and Strategic Purpose.
Significance to New Zealand
The Libyan campaign was of particular significance to New Zealanders as New Zealand played a major role in Libya. New Zealand played a major role in both combat and noncombat roles. The New Zealand soldiers fought across the Libyan Desert in various operations. However New Zealand also sent a large number of noncombat personnel as well. This included: Medics, Engineers and Radio broadcasters. It is also important to note the role that the New Zealand homefront played in the Libyan campaign. The efforts of the various New Zealand forces in Libya proved to be indispensable as did New Zealand's role at home. The various contributions of New Zealanders had a major impact on both New Zealanders and New Zealand society.
For more information see page Contribution and Impact on New Zealand soldiers.