Battle of Kasserine Pass
Kasserine Pass, Atlas Mountains, near Kasserine, Tunisia
What happened
German and Italian forces under Erwin Rommel fought the US II Corps under Lloyd Fredendall and British troops. In the Second World War, Rommel attacked through the Kasserine Pass, a 2-mile-wide gap in the Atlas Mountains of Tunisia. The inexperienced US troops were pushed back more than 50 miles. Allied reinforcements and artillery finally stopped the advance, and the German and Italian forces, short of fuel and ammunition, withdrew.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It was the first major battle between US and German forces in Africa. The US Army learned hard lessons and changed its organisation, tactics and some commanders.
What came next
General Eisenhower removed Fredendall, and on 6 March 1943 George Patton took command of II Corps.
Did you know?
After the battle, German units used many captured American armoured half-tracks.
Timeline
- 19 February 1943Rommel attacks through the Kasserine Pass.
- Late February 1943Allied reinforcements halt the advance at Thala and Djebel el Ahmar.
- 24 February 1943The Allies retake the pass.
- 6 March 1943Patton takes command of US II Corps.