Kokoda Trail Campaign Flashcards
What location were Japan and Australia fighting over?
Port Moresby
Why was Port Moresby a strategic location?
- Retaliation from the US made as difficult as possible
- Occupying Papua and New Guinea would isolate Australia from their allies
- Port Moresby would be dominating air and water forces under Japan’s control
- Australia would focus on defending themselves rather than supporting the US
Conditions of the Kokoda Trail
Topography
Climate
Track conditions
Diseases
Topography Examples
Mountain range with the highest point being 2000m above sea level, steep climb
Climate Examples
Hot and humid throughout the day, cold during the night, average yearly rainfall 2500-3000 mm
Track Conditions Examples
Muddy and narrow, rain caused the track to sludge and prone to flash floods
Diseases Examples
Tropical diseases such as malaria due to less technological advancements and poor preparations
Why were Japan seen as most likely to win?
Japan was more experienced, prepared and they started with 4000 soldiers intially
Why was Australia seen as the less likely winners?
Reserve force, highly inexperienced, 18-19 year old conscripts and 420 dispersed troops
Battle of Kokoda
28-29 July and 8-10 August
Japan won
The Battle of Isurava
25-31 August
Japan won
The First Battle of Eora Creek
31 August-5 September
Japan won
The Battle of Brigade Hill
6-9 September
Japan won
Battle of Ioribaiwa
14-16 September
Australia chose to retreat, Japan won
When did the Japanese retreat?
27 September
