The Role of Commonwealth Nations in World War II

During World War II, the British Commonwealth played a pivotal role in the support and defense of Great Britain. The collective effort of nations such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and India proved to be crucial in the Allied victory. Each country made significant contributions, but which of these nations was the most vital for Britain's survival and success?

The United States: A Latecomer and Paid Participant

When the war began in 1939, the United States initially maintained its neutrality. However, after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan in 1941, the United States joined the war, though they charged for their assistance. This late entry by the United States was significant, but it was not their early contributions that played the most decisive role for Britain.

Canada and the United Kingdom's Altruistic Relationship

One of the most crucial contributors was Canada, which provided substantial support to Great Britain. The United States built aircraft and tanks, leaving them at the Canadian border for pickup. Unlike the United States, Canada did not charge for their assistance, making their contributions even more valuable. Canada's role cannot be overstated, but it is important to recognize the specific reasons behind its significant involvement.

The Often Under-Rated India

A nation that often goes under-rated in discussions about World War II is India. During the war, hundreds of thousands of Indian soldiers fought under British command in various regions such as East Africa, North Africa, Syria, Lebanon, Iran, and Iraq from 1940 to 1942. At a time when the majority of the British infantry was still stationed in the UK, India's contribution was instrumental in enabling Churchill to launch campaigns against Italy and Germany in 1940 and 1941.

Indian soldiers continued to fight against Japan in Italy and Burma after 1943, providing crucial support that allowed the British to advance into Japan's territories in 1944 and 1945. Without India's contributions, Britain's efforts against Germany and Japan would have been significantly hampered. It is a testament to the professionalism and valor of Indian forces that they played such a significant role in the Allied victory.

Australia: A Lasting Debt

Australia's role in the war included significant contributions in the New Guinea campaign. However, it is important to recognize the broader contributions made by Commonwealth nations, particularly Canada, which played an indispensable role in supporting Great Britain during the war. The Canadian contribution was not isolated, but rather part of a larger network of support from the Commonwealth.

Historians often suggest that the order of importance during the war was Russia, the United States, Britain, the Commonwealth, and the Resistance. This order underscores the crucial role played by the British Commonwealth nations in providing military support, resources, and manpower to the Allied cause.