Churchill's strategy in the Mediterranean

Question 1

Why were Generals pre 1939 worried about the Med?

Answer 1

If Italy allied with Germany then the colonies they had in North Africa, e.g. Libya could pose a threat to the Suez Canal which was a major trade route for the UK (28% of goods).

Question 2

Why was Spain seen as a potential threat to the UK?

Answer 2

The Spanish dictator Franco, could threaten the UK control of the Gibraltar straight if Spain allied with Germany.

Question 3

Where did Churchill want to attack in 1940?

Answer 3

Churchill wanted a Balkan front mainly Greece, Yugoslavia and Turkey. Thus he sent forces into Greece when Italy invaded in 1940. The attack of Greece would draw in German resources and open up the prospect of British influence in South East Europe.

Question 4

What did the British favour after defeating Germany at El Alemein and what did the Americans favour?

Answer 4

USA - Rapid invasion of Northern France to get the war over and done with.
UK - Mediterranean front of the soft underbelly in Italy

Question 5

Why were the American’s justified in calling for a 2nd western front?

Answer 5

• The German Atlantic fortifications hadn’t been constructed yet
• The success of the war depended on the success of Russia
• The Mediterranean had little strategic importance

Question 6

How many allied divisions were occupied fighting the Germans in Italy?

Answer 6

16 (a lot of men)

Question 7

When did the Allies decide to open up a 2nd front on the Germans?

Answer 7

June 1944 - D Day

Question 8

Why was there such a delay with the invasion of France?

Answer 8

1. High casualties were expected (by the end 10,000 dead)
2. They were struggling in Italy more than anticipated
3. British policy was to defend the Mediterranean and thus the empire links - illustrated by the ‘%’s agreement between Churchill and Stalin gave both nations a split of Eastern Europe to form spheres of influence.
4. The invasion of Italy seemed the logical next step after conquering North Africa