The Final Country to Join World War II: A Comprehensive Overview

The question of which country joined World War II last is complex and can be answered in different ways depending on the criteria used. Historically, Brazil is often cited as the final country to officially join the conflict. However, other nations like Argentina and Turkey also declared war in their own unique circumstances. Understanding the context of these declarations provides a deeper insight into the global landscape of the war and the motivations of these countries.

Final Country: Brazil

Brazil officially joined the Allies on August 22, 1942, after a series of attacks by German submarines on its merchant ships. This action marked the country's formal entry into World War II. Despite being a neutral nation when the war began, Brazil eventually contributed significantly to the Allied war effort, particularly in the Italian Campaign. The Brazilian troops fought alongside Allied forces, including a notable instance where German troops surrendered to the Brazilians.

Argentina: A Later Declaration

Argentina's declaration of war on the Axis powers came later, on March 27, 1945. This declaration was notably made at the end of the war, when the outcome was already clear. Interestingly, Argentina's decision was influenced by the presence of Nazi war criminals seeking refuge in the country. The arrival of these criminals coincided with a growing conservatism under the Perón regime, which sought to consolidate its power and align with anti-communist sentiments.

Turkey: Late Entry and Diplomatic Maneuvering

Turkey joined the Allies on February 23, 1945, but this declaration was more of a diplomatic move than an active military intervention. Despite declaring war, the Turkish Army did not engage in any battles. The pretext for Turkey's entry into the war was the need to protect its own interests. Following the Soviet invasion of Bulgaria in August 1944, communication between Turkey and Germany was severed, leading to a shift in Turkey's strategic alignment. However, Turkey maintained trade relations with Germany and continued to supply essential minerals like chromium needed by the German war effort.

The Role of Latin American Countries

Multitude of Latin American countries, including Chile and Argentina, declared war late in the war, often due to divided loyalties and pressure from the United States. The United States sought to ensure the neutrality or alignment of these countries in the conflict. For example, Mexico officially declared war on Germany after two of its oil tankers were sunk by U-boats in 1943. Mexico's involvement was crucial in prompting other Latin American nations to join the Allies. Additionally, Mexican fighter pilots participated in the Pacific theater, contributing to the Allied war effort.

Finland: From Axis Ally to Opponent

Finland, originally an ally of the Axis powers, found itself compelled by the Soviet Union to expel German troops from its territory. Consequently, Finland declared war on Germany on March 3, 1945. This action was crucial in preventing the Soviet occupation of Finland after the war. If Finland had not taken this step, it would have faced severe consequences from the Soviet Union.

These examples illustrate the complex dynamics that characterized the final phases of World War II. While different countries declared war at various times and for diverse reasons, the entry of these nations into the conflict significantly shaped the outcome of the war and laid the groundwork for post-war international relations.

Key Takeaways
- Brazil joined the Allies on August 22, 1942, and played a significant role in the Italian Campaign.
- Argentina declared war on March 27, 1945, influenced by the presence of Nazi war criminals and growing conservatism.
- Turkey joined the Allies on February 23, 1945, but its military did not engage in battles, maintaining trade relations with Germany.
- Latin American countries, including Chile and Mexico, declared war following the US's influence and to protect their own interests.
- Finland, fundamentally an ally, shifted to declare war on Germany on March 3, 1945, to prevent Soviet occupation.

These events highlight the pivotal role countries played in the final phase of World War II and the enduring impact of their decisions on the course of the global conflict.