Chronology of World War II
British offensive in north Africa
Tuesday, November 18, 1941 www.onwar.com

In North Africa... The British offensive, Operation Crusader begins with a sortie by British 30th Corps over the Egyptian border into Libya. The British forces have been reorganized into the 8th Army under General Cunningham. They advance unmolested to Gabr Saleh.

On the Eastern Front... The Soviet counterattack using the Siberian reservists, near Venev causes heavy losses to one of General Guderian's infantry divisions. 

From Japan... 11 Japanese submarines are launched to take up station keeping off Hawaii and scouting mission. A further nine Japanese vessels sail for Hawaii from Kwajalein.

From London... General Brooke replaces General Dill as Chief of the Imperial General Staff. General Dill will go to Washington to lead the British military mission there. General Paget is appointed C-in-C Home Forces, in Brooke's place.


This chronological study of the Second World War provides a comprehensive day-by-day account of WWII. While focused on the military history of the war, with an emphasis on the battles and campaigns fought, the timeline includes social and political history as well. Some Holocaust related events are already recorded and additional updates are pending. In so far as possible, the images included in this presentation are pictures from the given days. Additional information and images are welcome through the feedback form found on the index.