The Western Desert Campaign was a series of battles in North Africa during World War II, primarily between the forces of the United Kingdom and Germany along with their Italian allies. It took place from 1940 to 1943, focusing on the control of the Suez Canal and the oil fields in the Middle East. Key battles included the Battle of El Alamein and the Siege of Tobruk. The campaign was marked by significant movements of troops and equipment across the harsh desert terrain. It involved both conventional warfare and the use of armored units, with notable commanders like Bernard Montgomery for the Allies and Erwin Rommel for the Axis powers. The campaign ultimately contributed to the defeat of Axis forces in North Africa.