During World War II, the British Army fought from the war’s start in 1939, defending against Germany after the invasion of Poland. Following the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940, Britain stood alone against Nazi Germany, enduring the Blitz while rebuilding its forces. British troops later fought in North Africa, Italy, and during D-Day in 1944, helped liberate Western Europe. By May 1945, Britain was among the main Allied victors. Though heavily damaged and economically strained, its army had played a crucial role in defeating Nazi Germany.