During World War II, Iceland gained strategic significance due to its proximity to Europe and North America. When Germany invaded Denmark in April 1940, Britain realized the importance of preventing a similar invasion of Iceland and decided to occupy the island. However, their occupation was short-lived, as they had to return to defend against Germany's planned attack of the United Kingdom.
British Prime Minister Winston Churchill sought help from President Franklin D. Roosevelt to safeguard Iceland. In response, the United States sent Marines to Iceland five months before officially entering the war.
Thanks to Audible, we can give you a free audiobook! I have included my book recommendation at the end of each episode, but don’t feel obligated to select my suggestion. This offer is available to any of the tens of thousands of audiobooks offered by Audible. Regardless if you decide to continue your membership with audible, this book is yours to keep forever.
References
Bars in downtown Reykjavík ran out of beer serving thirsty US sailors and marines. (n.d.). Icelandmag. https://icelandmag.is/article/bars-downtown-reykjavik-ran-out-beer-serving-thirsty-us-sailors-and-marines?fbclid=IwAR0WclNelg-s7MtW8hti4zbQvKg7iUcds_wq_T4hXGOz58-GqzCLmtOti_Q
Bittner, D. F. (1983). The Lion and the White Falcon: Britain and Iceland in the World War II Era. United States: Archon Books.
Clifford, K. J. (1970). The United States Marines in Iceland, 1941-1942. United States: Historical Division, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps.
Fairchild, B. (1960). Decision to Land United States Forces in Iceland, 1941. United States: Center of Military History, U.S. Army.
Forestry in a treeless land: Trees now cover nearly 2 percent of the country. (n.d.). Icelandmag. https://icelandmag.is/article/forestry-a-treeless-land-trees-now-cover-nearly-2-percent-country
G. J. G. (2021). Iceland in World War II: A Blessed War. Iceland: Sæmundur.
Kluger, M., Evans, R. J. (2021). Roosevelt and Churchill: the Atlantic Charter: A Risky Meeting at Sea That Saved Democracy. United Kingdom: Pen & Sword Books Limited.
Matloff, M., Snell, E. M. (1953). Strategic Planning for Coalition Warfare, 1941-1942. United States: Office of the Chief of Military History, Department of the Army. https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Grand_Alliance/tuHNCBDpQSQC?hl=en&gbpv=1&printsec=frontcover
Milestones: 1937–1945 - Office of the Historian. (n.d.). https://history.state.gov/milestones/1937-1945/atlantic-conf#:~:text=The%20Atlantic%20Charter%20was%20a,U.S.%20and%20British%20war%20aims.
Selective Training and Service Act of 1940, as Amended [1942].. (1942). United States: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Wren, G. R. (1996). Iceland in World War Two: A G.I.'s Memoirs. United States: G.R. Wren.