When did the Afrika Korps form and who commanded it?
The German Africa Corps formed on the 11th of January 1941. Adolf Hitler designated Erwin Rommel as commander on the 11th of February.
Questions about Afrika Korps
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What was the duration of the Afrika Korps campaign in North Africa?
The unit fought from March 1941 until surrender in May 1943. The campaign lasted twenty-seven months total before all remaining Axis forces laid down arms on the 13th of May.
How many divisions comprised the Afrika Korps during its peak strength?
At this time the Afrika Korps included two divisions consisting of the 5th Light Division and elements of the 15th Panzer Division transferred from Italy. These units remained subordinated to the Italian chain of command while operating under the higher formation name Panzer Group Africa.
Where were most Afrika Korps prisoners of war held after surrender?
Most Afrika Korps prisoners of war traveled to the United States after surrender. Camp Shelby in Mississippi held many captured soldiers while Camp Hearne in Texas housed another large group.
Why did the Afrika Korps change its designation multiple times between 1941 and 1943?
The German Armed Forces High Command increased presence in Africa by creating new headquarters called Panzer Group Africa on the 15th of August 1941. This structure later redesignated as Panzer Army Africa on the 30th of January 1942 following strategic shifts including Allied landings in Morocco.