Allied Powers
Origins
The term Allied Powers refers to the countries that opposed the Central Powers in World War I and the Axis Powers in World War II. The Allies in World War I (also known as the Entente Powers) primarily included France, Russia, and the United Kingdom, while the Allies in World War II primarily included the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom.
World War I Allies
The Allies in World War I were initially the Triple Entente, a military alliance formed in 1907 among the United Kingdom, France, and Russia. The alliance was a countermeasure against the Triple Alliance of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy. However, Italy did not enter the war on the side of the Triple Alliance, instead joining the Allies in 1915.
France
France was one of the original members of the Triple Entente and a major player in World War I. The war began for France when Germany declared war on the country on August 3, 1914. The French army, under the command of General Joseph Joffre, fought against the German forces in a series of battles known as the Battle of the Marne, Battle of Verdun, and others.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom entered World War I on August 4, 1914, following Germany's invasion of Belgium. The British Expeditionary Force (BEF) was sent to France and fought alongside French and Belgian troops against the German forces. The United Kingdom also played a significant role in the naval warfare of World War I, particularly in the Battle of Jutland.
Russia
Russia was also a member of the Triple Entente and entered the war on August 1, 1914, when it declared war on Germany. The Russian army fought on the Eastern Front against the Central Powers. However, the Russian Revolution in 1917 led to Russia's withdrawal from the war.
World War II Allies
The Allies in World War II were a coalition of countries that opposed the Axis Powers. The main Allied Powers were the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom, along with China and France.
United States
The United States entered World War II following the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan on December 7, 1941. The U.S. played a significant role in both the European and Pacific theaters of the war, contributing to the defeat of the Axis Powers.
Soviet Union
The Soviet Union, despite initially signing a non-aggression pact with Germany, entered the war on the side of the Allies after being invaded by Germany in June 1941. The Soviet Union played a crucial role in the defeat of the Axis Powers, particularly on the Eastern Front.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom, along with its empire and commonwealth, was one of the original opponents of the Axis Powers. The UK played a significant role in various theaters of the war, including the Battle of Britain, the North African Campaign, and the Burma Campaign.