World War II is often remembered for the big players: the U.S., Britain, France, and the Soviet Union. But many smaller nations also played crucial roles, often overlooked in history books. These countries, acting independently, stood against the Axis powers and contributed significantly to the Allied victory. Let’s explore some of these forgotten allies and their contributions to the war effort.
10 Forgotten Allies in World War II
10 Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic declared war on Japan shortly after Pearl Harbor and on Germany soon after. While their military didn’t see combat, over a hundred Dominicans served in the U.S. Armed Forces. More importantly, the nation offered refuge to Jewish people fleeing persecution in Europe. President Rafael Trujillo’s motives may not have been purely altruistic, aiming to improve his image and promote white European immigration. Still, for the refugees, it was a lifesaving haven. About 750 Jews settled in Sosua, a community that remains a Jewish enclave today.
9 Colombia
Colombia didn’t immediately declare war after Pearl Harbor but broke off diplomatic ties with the Axis. Its strategic location near the Panama Canal was crucial. Despite past resentment towards the U.S. (due to the Panama Canal’s history), Colombia received military equipment through the Lend-Lease Program and allowed the U.S. to station troops within its borders. After a German U-boat sunk the Colombian schooner Resolute, Colombia declared a “state of belligerency” against the Axis. The Colombian destroyer ARC Caldas engaged a U-boat in 1944, marking Colombia’s only direct military action during the war.
8 Haiti
Haiti declared war on Japan shortly after Pearl Harbor, followed by declarations against Germany, Italy, Bulgaria, and Romania. The U.S. provided Haiti with aircraft for Caribbean patrols to deter German submarines. Five Haitian pilots volunteered for the U.S. Air Force and were integrated into the Tuskegee Airmen, the renowned African-American unit. These pilots faced discrimination in the segregated South but fought valiantly in Europe. Their service was belatedly recognized, with Raymond Cassagnol, the last surviving Haitian Tuskegee airman, honored at President Obama’s inauguration and later receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor.
7 Chile
Chile initially remained neutral due to pro-Axis sentiment, anti-American feelings, and a large German minority. The Axis exploited this neutrality by establishing espionage networks. However, a new pro-Allied president took office in 1942, and Chile broke off diplomatic relations with the Axis in 1943. Chile’s most significant contribution was dismantling a German spy ring in Valparaiso, which had planned to bomb Chilean mines supplying the Allies and, more alarmingly, the Panama Canal. This disruption could have severely hampered the Allied war effort.
6 Cuba
Cuba was among the first Latin American countries to declare war on Japan, followed by declarations against Germany and Italy. Its strategic location was vital for protecting the Panama Canal and Allied shipping lanes. Cuba allowed the U.S. to build bases in addition to Guantanamo Bay and actively participated in the Battle of the Caribbean. The Cuban navy was praised for its efficiency, sinking a U-boat near Havana in 1943. Cuban police also captured Nazi spy Heinz Luning, who was executed for feeding shipping information to U-boats. Cuba also supplied the Allies with sugar.
5 Argentina
Argentina remained pro-Axis for most of the war, only declaring war in March 1945, relatively late. The country’s population, largely composed of European immigrants, included many sympathetic to the Axis. Despite neutrality, Argentina served as a base for Nazi espionage. However, many Argentines, particularly those of British descent, volunteered to fight for the Allies. Around 4,000 Argentines served in British military services, including 800 pilots in the Royal Air Force, with a special Argentine squadron. One notable volunteer, Maureen Dunlop, flew various aircraft types for the Air Transport Auxiliary.
4 Mexico
Mexico severed ties with Japan, Germany, and Italy following the sinking of Mexican oil tankers by German U-boats. After Germany refused to apologize, Mexico declared war on the Axis. President Avila Camacho focused on economic and material assistance but also formed Escuadron Aéreo de Pelea 201, known as the Aztec Eagles. This unit trained in the U.S. and participated in the liberation of the Philippines, flying 795 sorties to support American and Filipino troops. An estimated 15,000 Mexicans also served in the U.S. military.
3 Brazil
Even before Pearl Harbor, Brazil was aligned with the Allied cause. Its port of Natal served as a crucial stopover for U.S. troops and supplies. Brazil received significant military aid from the U.S. and declared war on the Axis after German U-boats sunk Brazilian ships. The Brazilian Expeditionary Force (FEB) was formed and deployed to Italy by 1944. The FEB played a key role in capturing Monte Castello and trapping the German 148th Infantry Division at Fornovo di Taro. Despite their contributions, Brazil didn’t receive a permanent seat in the UN Security Council, leading to lingering resentment.
2 Nepal
Nepal supported the British during the war, with its army mobilized under Lord Louis Mountbatten. The Nepalese court also provided financial assistance. Gurkha soldiers, known for their bravery and skill, fought in North Africa, Europe, and the Far East. They played a crucial role in battles like Monte Cassino and helped repel the Japanese invasion of India. Individual acts of heroism, like that of Lachhiman Gurung, highlighted their exceptional courage.
1 South Africa
South Africa’s role is often overshadowed by other British dominions. Despite initial pro-neutrality sentiments within its government, South Africa declared war on Germany in 1939. South African forces fought in East Africa, North Africa, and Italy. They faced defeats early on but redeemed themselves at El Alamein and played a key role in capturing Florence. U.S. General Mark W. Clark praised their contributions, emphasizing their unwavering commitment despite heavy losses.
These ten nations, though often overlooked, played vital roles in the Allied victory during World War II. Their contributions, whether through military action, strategic location, or humanitarian efforts, underscore the global effort required to defeat the Axis powers. Remembering their sacrifices and contributions offers a more complete understanding of this pivotal period in history.
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