Operation Compass (9 Dec 1940 to 7 Feb 1941) was an Allied offensive in North Africa, which pushed Italian forces out of Egypt and then Cyrenaica (Eastern Libya). The Allied Western Desert Force, led by Lieutenant-General Richard O'Connor (1889-1981), inflicted numerous heavy defeats on the Italian army commanded by Marshal Rodolfo Graziani (1882-1955).
More about: Operation Compass5 days left
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Definition
Timeline
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Sep 1940An Italian army led by Marshal Rodolfo Graziani marches into British-held Egypt.
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9 Dec 1940 - 7 Feb 1941The Allied Operation Compass, which defeated Italian forces during the Western Desert Campaigns.
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9 Dec 1940The Allied Western Defence Force attacks the various Italian fortified camps around Sidi Barani.
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11 Dec 1940The Allied Western Defence Force wins the battle of Sidi Barani, defeating an Italian army.
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5 Jan 1941The Allied Western Defence Force wins the battle of Bardia, defeating an Italian army.
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22 Jan 1941The Allied Western Defence Force captures Tobruk from the Italians.
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24 Jan 1941The Allied Western Defence Force wins a tank battle against the Italians at Mechili.
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30 Jan 1941The Allied Western Defence Force captures Derna from the Italians.
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3 Feb 1941 - 7 Feb 1941The Allied Western Defence Force attacks and captures Bengahzi from the Italians.
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7 Feb 1941The Allied Western Defence Force defeats the Italian 10th Army at Beda Fomm.
