The Cowra Breakout was a significant event during World War II that occurred on August 5, 1944, at the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp in New South Wales, Australia. It involved a mass escape attempt by over 500 Japanese prisoners, who sought to flee the camp. The breakout was prompted by the prisoners' desire for freedom and was marked by chaos and violence. During the escape, many prisoners were killed or recaptured, and several Australian soldiers also lost their lives. The incident highlighted the tensions and challenges of managing wartime prisoners. The Cowra Breakout remains a notable event in Australian military history.