Chronology of World War II
Rommel planning counteroffensive
Monday, January 12, 1942 www.onwar.com
Rommel and his staff discussing operationsIn North Africa... Rommel adopts his subordinates' plan to prepare a surprise counteroffensive against the British. Neither the German nor the Italian High Command are informed of the plans. Rommel has continued to receive new tanks during the retreat. The Australian divisions and the British 7th Armored Brigade have been scheduled to leave the area for service in the Far East against Japan. 

From London... General Simovic resigns and Professor Yonvanvic becomes Premier of the Yugoslavian Government in exile. He takes Colonel Mihajlovic as Minister for War.

In the Dutch East Indies... After fierce fighting, the Japanese take Tarakan. Tarakan and Manado islands are quickly made into air fields to support the Japanese attack.

In Malaysia... Japanese troop enter Kuala Lumpur.


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.