Axis and Allied Mobilization Responses

Axis War Visions

Germany

Germany foresaw a series of short wars or political takeovers of states in one-on-one actions. And the early days proved out Germany’s expectations, beginning in 1935 with Germany violating the Treaty of Versailles by introducing military conscription on through to France signing an armistice with Nazi Germany in 1940. 

During the 1930s Germany more so than any other European nation mobilized their military and industry for war. German self-sufficiency was a key principle in their war preparations which included construction of synthetic fuel and rubber plants, prioritizing military over civilian economic policy, and stockpiling raw materials. 

Although Germany’s prewar vision required industrial and military mobilizations it did not envision that of total war. Accordingly, Germany’s early war manpower mobilization geared up for quick victories. For example, Operation Barbarossa launched against the Soviet Union on June 22nd, 1941, and was expected to last between six and eight weeks. Operation Barbarossa goal was the establishment of ‘a line of defense against Asiatic Russia’, stretching from the Volga to Archangelsk.

Operation Barbarossa was a planned quick campaign. In any case the fight on the Eastern Front was not expected to last into winter. The Germans accepted that the Soviets would ally with the British once Operation Barbarossa began. However, Hitler and his military leaders saw this as inconsequential, believing that the Wehrmacht would crush the Soviet Union before Britain could provide any aid.

Japan

Outside of the ongoing war in China the Japanese saw a rapid expansion into the southwest Pacific followed by a negotiated peace. Japan believe they could expand their empire and control the much-needed resources that they lacked. “They planned to fight a war of limited objectives and having once secured these objectives to set up a defense in such depth that the United States would find a settlement favorable to Japan an attractive alternative to a long and costly war. To the Japanese leaders this seemed an entirely reasonable view.” (1)

(1) Morton, Louis, “Command Decisions Japan’s Decision for War, Center of Military History United States Army, Washington, DC 1990, Page 122, https://history.army.mil/books/70-7_04.htm, accessed on March 29, 2023

Allies War Visions

It is almost counterintuitive that the Axis powers of Germany, Italy, and Japan all fascist governments would act so independently of each other. Whereas the Allied nations of the United Kingdom (UK), the United States (US), and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) three nations with a constitutional monarchy, a representative democratic republic, and a communist government would coordinate at a high level. 

Both the UK and the Soviet Union envisioned a long haul and coordinated their mobilization of manpower and economies accordingly. The US was the last entry into the fray, but they also mobilized along the lines of their allied nation partners. 

An Awkward Alliance

Despite their vastly different political systems, these nations worked towards a common goal of defeating their enemies. High level conferences at Tehran and Yalta with Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin in attendance. However, there were more than two dozen conferences with high-ranking Allied representatives coordinating intentions, materiel, and industries shaping their war effort. Teams implementing these conference decisions continued 

Training

The Axis powers, led by Germany, initially had a significant advantage in terms of training and experience. Both Germany and Japan had invested heavily in military training and had a highly trained and experienced military at the start of the war. However, as the war dragged on, both began to suffer from a shortage of manpower, and the quality of its troops began to decline. In response, they began to rely more heavily on conscription of both younger and older recruits and the use of poorly trained and inexperienced soldiers, leading to a decline in the overall quality of its forces.

In contrast, the Allied powers, led by the United States, took a different approach to training new recruits. The US military invested heavily in training and education, with a focus on developing highly skilled and well-trained soldiers. The US military also made use of modern technology and tactics to give its troops an edge in battle. As the war progressed, the Allies were able to draw on a larger pool of manpower and resources, allowing them to maintain a high level of training and experience among their troops.

Towards the end the Allies were providing better in depth and amount of training for their new troops. The Allies rotated experienced men into training roles to impart their hard gained knowledge.  Axis new recruits heard very little from the experienced veterans as they continued in their fighting roles often until they became a casualty statistic. 

Allied versus Axis Manpower 1939-1945 Data

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Note: German manpower was unknown for 1945. Post author used 7,000,000 as an estimate.

Source: Harrison, Mark. “The Economics of World War II: Six Great Powers in International Comparison”, Cambridge University Press (1998) Page 29

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

German Armed Forces Manpower by Year

US Military Branches Manpower and Deaths

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Conscription

Great Britain

Great Britain introduced conscription in the 1930s, but it was limited in scope and duration compared to the conscription that took place during World War II. The conscription during the 1930s was used to supplement the existing volunteer army and was often introduced in response to specific crises. It was generally limited to men aged 20 to 22, and the period of service was typically six months. The conscription during World War II was expanded to include men aged 18 to 41 and women aged 20 to 30. It affected millions of people and was in effect for the entire duration of the war and beyond.

During the 1930s, there were provisions for conscientious objectors who were opposed to military service on religious or moral grounds. These objectors could perform alternative forms of service, such as working in hospitals or on farms. However, during World War II, the government was less accommodating, and many objectors were sent to prison or forced to perform dangerous work. The conscription that took place during the 1930s was relatively short-lived, and there were important gaps in time between the different periods of conscription. In contrast, conscription during World War II was a massive effort that affected millions and continued for the entire duration of the war and beyond.

National Service was made mandatory for men up to the age of 60, including military service for those below 51. This was due to a lack of volunteers for police and civilian defense work, as well as a shortage of women for the auxiliary units of the armed forces.

United States

In 1920 The National Defense Act establishes a system of voluntary recruitment. Therefore, the United States did not have a conscription program in the 1930s and instead relied on a relatively small standing army and a National Guard composed of citizen-soldiers. However, the US introduced conscription on a massive scale with the Selective Training and Service Act of 1940, which required all men aged 21 to 45 to register for the draft. 

During World War II, there were provisions for conscientious objectors, but the government was less accommodating than during the 1930s. Conscription during World War II continued until the end of the war and beyond, with some forms of conscription continuing until 1973.

 The Selective Training and Service Act of 1940 allowed the US to rapidly expand its military manpower in response to the growing threat of war in Europe and Asia. By the end of the war 50 million men between eighteen and forty-five had registered for the draft and 10 million had been inducted in the military.

Soviet Union

The Soviet Union implemented a large-scale conscription program throughout the 1930s and during World War II. During the 1930s, all men aged 21 to 23 were required to serve in the military for two years, 

Germany launched a surprise attack on its ally, the USSR’s western border on June 22, 1941. In response, the government passed a new military service law in October 1941, which required all male citizens aged 16 to 28 to be liable for military service. Later the age range was expanded to include men aged 18 to 45. 

Women were also conscripted during World War II, with an estimated 800,000 serving in combat and support roles. The length of service for conscripts during World War II varied, but many served for the duration of the war. 

The Soviet Union used conscription during the 1930s as a means of indoctrinating soldiers with communist ideology, while during World War II, the focus was more on military training and the needs of the military.

Germany

Germany introduced conscription in the 1935, but it was limited in scope and duration compared to the conscription that took place during World War II. The conscription during the 1930s was used to rapidly expand Germany’s military forces, but it was often limited in scope and duration and was used to supplement the existing volunteer army. Additionally, the conscription law of 1935 required draftees to show evidence that they were “Aryan.”

The conscription during World War II was introduced on a massive scale and affected millions of people, both men and women. The age range was expanded to include men aged 16 to 60, and the period of service was longer than during the 1930s. The government was less accommodating to conscientious objectors during World War II than during the 1930s.

Even within the war years Germany’s military conscription program underwent significant changes. In 1940, the conscription program was limited to men aged 18 to 45, with a standard period of service of one year. However, by 1944, the age range had been expanded to include boys as young as 16 and men as old as 60, and the period of service had been extended to two years. Health requirements were also relaxed, and conscientious objectors were treated more harshly. These changes reflect the increasingly dire circumstances that Germany faced during the later years of World War II, as the country’s manpower needs became more desperate.

Japan

During the 1930s, Japan had a relatively small standing army and relied on conscription to supplement its military manpower. The conscription program required men aged 20 to 24 to serve for two years. However, during World War II, Japan greatly expanded its military forces, and conscription was used to mobilize millions of men and women for the war effort. The age range was expanded to include men aged 15 to 60, and the length of service was extended to several years.

During the 1930s, Japan had provisions for conscientious objectors, but these were not well-established or well-respected. During World War II, the government was less accommodating to conscientious objectors, and many were subject to harsh penalties, including imprisonment or execution. Additionally, during World War II, Japan began conscripting women into the military, with an estimated 100,000 serving in support roles. These changes reflect Japan’s growing militarism and the country’s increasing involvement in World War II.

Starting from 1938, Korean and Formosan subjects of the empire were allowed to volunteer for service, but they were usually assigned to labor battalions. In 1944, Japan began to conscript Koreans and Formosans for service, but these were desperate measures that were too late to alter Japan’s final fate in 1945.

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945 Data

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*Germany’s manpower for 1945 is unknown

Source: Trueman, C. N. “Weapons And Manpower.” https://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/world-war-two/weapons-and-manpower/, Data accessed on July 22, 2022

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Allied versus Axis Manpower 1939-1945

Combat Forces on the Eastern Front Manpower Ratios

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US Army Forces

On November 30, 1941, the United States Army had a significant presence in the Philippine Islands, which was then a territory of the United States. The US Army personnel in the Philippines consisted of approximately 10,000 regular Army soldiers, 8,000 Philippine Scouts (Filipino soldiers who served in the US Army), and 26,000 Philippine Commonwealth Army troops (Filipino soldiers under the control of the Philippine government).

The US Army was under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, who had been appointed as the Commander of US Army Forces in the Far East in July 1941. MacArthur was responsible for the defense of the Philippines, which was seen as a key strategic location in the event of a war with Japan.

US Preparedness

Despite the large number of troops in the Philippines, the US Army was not fully prepared for a war with Japan. There were shortages of weapons, ammunition, and other supplies, and the troops were not well-trained or well-equipped. There were several reasons why the US Army was not fully prepared for the Japanese attack on the Philippines:

Limited Resources

The US Army, the 19^th largest in the world, was spread thin across the globe, with troops stationed in other parts of the world. This meant that resources were limited, and the US Army had to prioritize where to allocate resources. 

Underestimation of Japanese Capabilities

The US Army underestimated the capabilities of the Japanese military. They believed that the Japanese would not be able to mount a successful attack on the Philippines and were caught off guard when the Japanese launched a surprise attack.

Limited Intelligence

The US Army had limited intelligence about the Japanese military, and what they did have was often outdated or inaccurate. This made it difficult for the US Army to predict where and when the Japanese would attack.

Poor Planning

The US Army’s planning for the defense of the Philippines was flawed. They focused on defending the major cities and ports, rather than on defending the entire archipelago. This left many areas vulnerable to attack.

Shortages of Supplies

The US Army in the Philippines was short on supplies and equipment, including weapons, ammunition, and food. This made it difficult for them to mount an effective defense against the Japanese.

Japanese Attack

On December 8, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the Philippines, just hours after attacking Pearl Harbor. The US Army and Philippine troops fought bravely, but were eventually forced to surrender on April 9, 1942, after months of intense fighting and suffering from disease and starvation. The capture of the Philippines was a major victory for Japan and a significant setback for the Allies in the Pacific Theater of World War II. The consequences of the US Army’s surrender in the Philippines were significant and far-reaching:

Loss of Territory

The surrender of the Philippines meant that the United States lost control of a major strategic location in the Pacific. The Japanese were able to use the islands as a base for further expansion and as a launching point for attacks on other Allied territories.

Prisoners of War

The US Army soldiers and Philippine troops who surrendered became prisoners of war. Many were forced to endure harsh conditions and brutal treatment at the hands of their captors, including the infamous Bataan Death March.

Propaganda Victory for Japan

The capture of the Philippines was a major propaganda victory for Japan. It demonstrated to the world that the Japanese could defeat a major Western power and strengthened their position in the Pacific.

Loss of Morale

The surrender of the Philippines was a significant blow to the morale of the US Army and the American people. It was a reminder that the war would be long and difficult, and that victory was not assured.

Retaliation

The surrender of the Philippines also led to a desire for revenge among many Americans. This desire for retaliation would later fuel the decision to drop atomic bombs on Japan.

Overall, the surrender of the Philippines was a significant setback for the Allies in the Pacific Theater of World War II and had far-reaching consequences for the war effort.

US Army Personnel in Philippine Islands: 30 November 1941 Data

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(a) Includes 31 Philippine Scout officers.

(b) According to W. F. Craven and J. L. Cate, The Army Air Forces in World War II (University of Chicago Press, 1948), I, 170, Air Corps strength on 7 December 1941 was 754 officers, 6,706 men.

(c) Includes officers for whom no unit is indicated.

Source: Watson, Mark Skinner. “Chief of Staff: Prewar Plans and Preparations.” Page 449, Table 3, Center of Military History, Library of Congress Catalog Card Number 50-62983, First Printed 1950-CMH Pub 1-1, https://history.army.mil/books/wwii/csppp/ch13.htm#t1

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

US Military Manpower 1939 – 1945

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Eastern Front Manpower Ratios

Germany believed they could quickly dispatch the Soviet military in six to eight weeks. During this time period the held a 1.4:1 to 1.9:1 ratio edge over the Soviets. However, by December that ratio edge had become a 1.2:1 Soviet advantage which would continue to grow through the rest of the war.

Total Soviet Manpower

The Soviet Union’s military manpower grew significantly from 1939 through 1945. At the start of the war, the Soviet Union had approximately 1.5 million personnel in its armed forces, which increased to around 5 million by 1941, and over 11 million by the end of the war in 1945. Of this total military manpower, the Soviet Union was able to put approximately 6.8 million combat forces onto the Eastern Front at its peak in 1944. This manpower was largely mobilized through conscription, with millions of men being drafted into the military throughout the war. 

The Soviet Union’s military was known for its strength in numbers and its willingness to engage in brutal and costly battles. The Soviet Union suffered heavy losses throughout the war, with estimates suggesting that over 10 million Soviet soldiers died or missing during the conflict. 

Despite these losses, the Soviet Union’s military was able to successfully repel the German invasion and push back against Germany on the Eastern Front. The Soviet Union’s manpower played a crucial role in these victories, as the sheer number of soldiers allowed the Soviet Union to maintain a strong presence on multiple fronts. 

Women

The Soviet Union was one of the few countries during World War II to actively recruit and deploy women in combat roles. Women played a significant role in the Soviet Union’s military efforts, with around 500,000 serving in combat roles by the end of the war.

Women were initially recruited into non-combat roles, such as medical personnel, clerks, and support staff. However, as the war progressed and the need for manpower increased, women were also recruited into combat roles.

Women served in a variety of combat roles, including snipers, machine gunners, tank drivers, and pilots. Many women also served in partisan units, engaging in guerrilla warfare against the German occupation forces.

Women in the Soviet Union’s military were often given the same training and equipment as their male counterparts and were expected to perform the same duties. They were also subject to the same harsh conditions and risks as male soldiers.

The Soviet Union’s decision to deploy women in combat roles was driven by a combination of necessity and ideology. The Soviet Union needed all the manpower it could get to fight against the German invasion, and the use of women helped to fill the gaps in the military. Additionally, the Soviet Union’s communist ideology emphasized gender equality, and the deployment of women in combat roles was seen as a way to demonstrate this equality.

Manpower and Ratios of Combat Forces on the Eastern Front Data

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Source: Glantz, David and House, Jonathan. “When Titans Clashed: How the Red Army Stopped Hitler”, University Press of Kansas, 1995,
War on The Rocks, “Was The Russian Military A Steamroller? From World War II to Today”, https://warontherocks.com/2016/07/was-the-russian-military-a-steamroller-from-world-war-ii-to-today/

Other Manpower Data Links

German Armed Forces – Manpower

Military Manpower and Deaths by Country

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

German Armed Forces Manpower by Year

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1930s Military Build Up by Nation

China

The size of China’s military varied greatly during the 1930s due to the ongoing Second Sino-Japanese War, which began in 1937. At the beginning of the decade, China had a relatively small standing army of approximately 300,000 soldiers. However, as the conflict with Japan escalated, China rapidly expanded its military forces, and by 1939, it had an estimated 5 million soldiers. It’s worth noting, however, that China’s military was often poorly equipped and trained compared to the better-equipped Japanese forces.

France

France maintained a large standing army of approximately 900,000 soldiers in the 1930s but was slow to develop new technologies and modernize its army. They focused on building defensive fortifications, such as the Maginot Line, and relied heavily on colonial troops. However, they did not prioritize the development of new technologies, putting them at a disadvantage compared to Germany. The political instability in France during the 1930s also had an impact on its military, contributing to their defeat by Germany in 1940.

Germany

Germany began a massive military buildup in violation of the Treaty of Versailles, expanding its army, developing new technologies such as the Panzer tank and the Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter plane, and reintroducing conscription. Germany began to expand its army increasing the number of soldiers from approximately 100,000 in 1933 to over five million by 1941.

They spent a significant portion of their budget on military spending, even during the Great Depression, and developed a new military doctrine, Blitzkrieg, which emphasized speed and mobility. Germany’s military buildup ultimately led to the outbreak of World War II as they sought to expand their control over Europe and beyond.

Japan

In the 1930s, Japan began to expand its military with the goal of becoming a major military power in Asia. Japan introduced conscription in 1936, which allowed them to rapidly expand their military manpower.  Japan expanded its army, increasing the number of soldiers from approximately 200,000 in 1930 to 1.7 million by 1941. 

Soviet Union

Soviet conscription existed since the 1920s but was modified in 1930 limiting duty to workers. In 1939 the law ‘On the Universal Military Duty’ was adopted allowing them to rapidly expand their military manpower. By 1941, at almost five million men, the Red Army was one of the largest armies in the world.

In the late 1937, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin carried out a purge of the officer corps of the Red Army. This resulted in the execution or imprisonment of thousands of officers, including many of the most experienced and capable leaders. This had a significant impact on the Red Army’s effectiveness in the early years of World War II.

The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom prioritized its navy over its army, maintaining a standing army of approximately 200,000 soldiers while developing new technologies and modernizing their navy, including the construction of new battleships and aircraft carriers. The Royal Navy had approximately 110,000 sailors in 1930. This number remained relatively stable throughout the 1930s, with minor fluctuations.

They faced financial constraints and relied heavily on troops from their colonial empire. The UK also developed their air force, with a focus on new aircraft such as the Hawker Hurricane fighter and the Avro Lancaster bomber. The UK’s military manpower in the 1930s was not as well-positioned militarily as some of the other major European powers, but their navy and air force were among the most advanced in the world at the time.

The United States

The size of the US military remained relatively small during the 1930s, with a standing army of approximately 200,000 soldiers throughout the decade. However, the US did introduce conscription in 1940, which allowed them to rapidly expand their military manpower in the months leading up to World War II. Prior to conscription, the US military was smaller than those of many other major powers, ranking as the 19^th largest army worldwide at the outbreak of hostilities.

The size of the US Navy remained relatively stable during the 1930s, with approximately 100,000 sailors throughout the decade. However, the US Navy did introduce new ship classes and technologies during this period, such as the Yorktown class aircraft carriers and the Fletcher class destroyers. 

Comparative Military Manpower (Including Reserves) Sept 1939 Data

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Source: McNab, Chris. “Hitler’s Masterplan.” Editor: Spilling, Michael, Amber Books, 2011, Page 29

Other Personnel Data Links

Research Starters: US Military by the Numbers

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

US Army Personnel in Philippine Islands: 30 Nov 1941

Selective Service System

The Selective Service System, also known as the draft, was a mechanism used by the United States government to conscript men into military service during times of war and national emergency from 1917 to 1973. The system was first used during World War I, and was later used in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

The various Selective Service Acts were passed to address the need for a large military force to fight in the wars. The Act required men to register for the draft, and it was based on a lottery system, drawing numbers to determine the order in which men were called up for military service. Men could be exempt from the draft if they were physically or mentally unfit for military service, the sole breadwinner for their family, or in essential occupations.

Controversy

The drafts were seen as controversial and faced significant opposition from many Americans who were against conscription. The drafts were seen by many as unfair and unjust, as it disproportionately affected working-class and minority Americans who did not have the resources to avoid military service.

Wars

World War I

The Selective Service System was created in 1917 in response to the need for a large military force to fight in World War I, at the time known as The Great War. The Act required all men between the ages of 21 and 30 to register for the draft. The system allowed the government to draft men into military service based on their age, health, and other factors. During World War I, over 2.8 million men were drafted into military service through the Selective Service System.

Though the Selective Service System was controversial and faced opposition from many Americans who were against conscription, it was successful in providing the military with the manpower it needed to fight in World War I. The draft also led to a significant mobilization of American society for the war effort, with many Americans participating in war-related industries and volunteer organizations. It also led to a significant expansion of the federal government’s role in American society, as the government took on new responsibilities for managing the draft and the military.

World War II

Similarly, to WW1 the United States government utilized the Selective Service System during World War II to conscript men into military service. The Selective Training and Service Act of 1940 was passed in anticipation of the possibility of US involvement in the war. Under the Selective Service Act, all men between the ages of 21 and 45 were required to register for the draft.

The draft was successful in providing the military with the manpower it needed to fight in World War II. Over 10 million men were drafted into military service through the Selective Service System during the war. 

In addition, the draft played a significant role in integrating the military. African Americans were drafted into the military, which led to the desegregation of the armed forces. Women were also allowed to serve in non-combat roles in the military, paving the way for greater participation by women in the armed forces.

Korean War

Under the Selective Service Act, all men between the ages of 18 and 25 were required to register for the draft. Over 1.5 million men were drafted into military service through the Selective Service System during the war, which lasted from 1950 to 1953. The Korean War draft was also significant in that it marked the first time that African Americans and other minorities served alongside white soldiers in integrated units.

Vietnam War

Under the Selective Service Act, all men between the ages of 18 and 25 were required to register for the draft and approximately 2.2 million men were drafted into military service. More so than any other war of the 1900s the Vietnam War was controversial, with many Americans opposing the war and questioning the government’s involvement in the conflict.

All Volunteer Army

The draft for the Vietnam War led to widespread protests and resistance, with many young men refusing to report for induction. The draft also had a significant impact on American society, leading to a mobilization of anti-war sentiment and a growing movement for peace and social justice.

The Vietnam War draft marked the beginning of the end of the Selective Service System. In 1973, the United States ended the draft and replaced it with an all-volunteer military. The end of the draft was seen as a reflection of the changing attitudes towards military service and the increasing belief that military service should be a voluntary choice rather than a mandatory obligation.

US Inductions by Year 1917-1973 Data

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Source: Selective Service System, “Induction Statistics.” https://www.sss.gov/history-and-records/induction-statistics/, Data accessed on June27, 2022

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

US Military Branches Manpower and Deaths

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

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German Forces

Occupying Forces

Germany occupied several countries in Europe, and the presence of German occupying forces had a significant impact on the occupied territories and their populations.

In many cases, German occupying forces were tasked with maintaining control of the occupied territories, suppressing any resistance or rebellion, and enforcing German policies and laws. This often involved the use of violence, intimidation, and coercion against civilians, as well as the establishment of concentration camps and other forms of repression.

The German occupying forces also had significant economic and political control over the occupied territories. They often exploited the resources and labor of the occupied populations for the benefit of the German war effort, and many occupied territories were used as staging grounds for military operations.

The presence of German occupying forces also led to widespread resistance and rebellion among the occupied populations. Resistance movements took many forms, including sabotage, espionage, and guerrilla warfare. These movements were often brutally suppressed by the German forces, leading to mass arrests, deportations, and executions.

The impact of the German occupying forces on the occupied territories and their populations was devastating. The forced labor, repression, and violence inflicted by the occupying forces led to the deaths of millions of civilians across Europe.

Germany also had occupying forces in several countries and those forces varied over time, but here are some peak estimates: Poland (2,500,000), Norway (300,000 troops), Denmark (120,000), Netherlands (250,000), and France (300,000).

Germany also had a military presence in countries that were originally aligned with them. Again, those forces varied over time, but here are some peak estimates: Finland (300,000), Hungary (200,000), Romania (300,000), Czechoslovakia (350,000), and Italy (300,000).

Lead-up to Operation Barbarossa

Germany’s military and industrial preparations were geared towards a series of short wars or political takeovers of states in one-on-one actions. This strategy was based on Germany’s belief that it could quickly defeat its enemies and expand its territory. Germany’s early successes, such as violating the Treaty of Versailles by introducing military conscription and France signing an armistice in 1940, seemed to confirm this strategy.

In the 1930s, Germany’s military and industry were mobilized for war more than any other European nation. German self-sufficiency was a key principle in their war preparations, which included the construction of synthetic fuel and rubber plants, prioritizing military over civilian economic policy, and stockpiling raw materials. 

Germany’s early war manpower mobilization was geared towards quick victories, such as the Blitzkrieg in 1940 that led to the fall of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. With an invasion of Great Britain on hold Germany planned Operation Barbarossa against the Soviet Union in 1941, which was expected to last between six and eight weeks. Despite the expectation of Soviet-British alliance, Hitler and his military leaders believed that the Wehrmacht would crush the Soviet Union before Britain could provide any aid.

Operation Barbarossa and Beyond

Germany in a short stroke through Operation Barbarossa’s would establish ‘a line of defense against Asiatic Russia’, stretching from the Volga to Archangelsk. Operation Barbarossa’s failure had significant implications for its military manpower needs. 

Germany had mobilized a large portion of its military forces for the campaign with the plan of quickly defeating the Soviet Union and securing vital resources and territory. However, the Soviet Union put up a much stronger resistance than expected, and the German forces were bogged down in a brutal and protracted war on the Eastern Front.

As a result of the failure of Operation Barbarossa, Germany’s military manpower needs increased significantly. The war on the Eastern Front became a war of attrition, requiring a constant flow of new troops to replace those lost in battle. Germany was forced to rely increasingly on conscription to fill its ranks, with many young men being drafted into military service. 

Additionally, the manpower needs of the German military increased as the war expanded to other fronts, including North Africa and Western Europe. Germany was forced to fight a multi-front war, which placed a tremendous strain on its military resources and manpower.

Despite these challenges, Germany continued to fight on multiple fronts until its defeat by the Allied powers in 1945. The failure of Operation Barbarossa was a turning point in the war, marking the beginning of the end for Germany’s military ambitions and highlighting the limitations of its military resources and manpower.

Military Divisions per Country 1939-45 in Europe Data

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Source: World-War-2.info. “World War 2 Statistics.’ http://www.world-war-2.info/statistics/, Data accessed on June 27, 2022

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

US Military Branches Manpower and Deaths

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.

Prewar and Early-war Mobilization

In the prewar and early-war years, the British armed forces comprised a considerably smaller number of personnel than Germany’s 4.2 million in 1940. The data from W.K Hancock & M.M. Gowing’s “British War Economy” Chapter V, Page 137 provides insight into the evolving numbers of personnel within each service branch. In June 1939, the British armed forces had a combined total of approximately 480,000 personnel. This number included men and women across all service branches. As the war progressed, the need for additional personnel became increasingly evident.

Conscription

The British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force saw growth in their manpower as the nation prepared for the challenges of the war. Conscription played a pivotal role in bolstering the armed forces. The Military Training Act of 1939 and the National Service (Armed Forces) Act of 1939 provided the legal framework for conscripting eligible men into military service. 

Conscription significantly increased the size of the British armed forces, ensuring a steady influx of personnel and enforcing full conscription on all male British subjects between 18 and 41. Additionally, the conscription acts allowed conscription of women although with a far greater number of exceptions than those for men. Such as women who had one or more children 14 years old or younger living with them were exempt from conscription.

By June 1945, as the war entered its final phase, the size of the British armed forces had swelled to approximately 5.1 million personnel. This included both men and women who had answered the call to serve their country. 

Women in the Military

One notable aspect of the mobilization effort was the inclusion of women in various military roles. Prewar there were nearly zero women serving in the British Armed Forces and by D-Day, there were nearly half a million.  

The Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) played a crucial role in this regard, with women serving in a wide range of positions. Princess Elizabeth, the future Queen Elizabeth II, also contributed to the war effort by serving in the ATS. Her involvement exemplified the commitment of the British royal family to the nation’s cause during this critical time.

UK Mobilization versus Other Countries

A comparative analysis of mobilization efforts reveals that Great Britain’s commitment to mobilizing personnel was substantial. When compared to other countries involved in World War II, the United Kingdom’s efforts to recruit and train military personnel were among the most extensive. The scale of mobilization reflected the nation’s determination to defend its interests and contribute to the Allied cause in the global conflict. Both the United Kingdom and the United States mobilized just over 12% of their population into the military.  Whereas the USSR mobilized 20% and Germany 26%.

The UK and US strategically decided they would fight a mechanized war. Politically the democratic nations were more sensitive to manpower casualties than either Germany, Japan, or even the Allied partner, the USSR. Therefore, the UK and US ensured that their factories were mobilized to a greater degree.

UK Armed Forces Men and Women 1939-45 Data

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Source: W.K Hancock & M.M. Gowing, “British War Economy.” Chapter V, Page 351, https://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/UN/UK/UK-Civil-WarEcon/UK-Civil-WarEcon-Stats-3.html

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

German Armed Forces Manpower by Year

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

Wehrmacht

The Wehrmacht was the unified armed forces of Nazi Germany during World War II. It was composed of three branches: the Heer (army), the Kriegsmarine (navy), and the Luftwaffe (air force). The Wehrmacht was one of the most powerful military forces of its time, and it played a significant role in the early successes in the war.

The Wehrmacht was known for its superior training, tactics, and equipment, as well as its ability to rapidly mobilize and deploy forces on multiple fronts. Its early successes in the war were due to its innovative tactics, such as the use of armored units and combined arms operations.

However, as the war progressed, the Wehrmacht was stretched thin and began to suffer from manpower and resource shortages. Despite this, the Wehrmacht continued to fight fiercely until the end of the war, and its personnel made many sacrifices in service to their country.

Heer

The Heer at the start of the war in 1939, had approximately 3.7 million personnel, including both active-duty soldiers and reserves. As the war progressed, the Heer increasingly relied on conscription and forced labor to maintain its manpower levels. Foreign volunteers and conscripts from occupied territories, such as France and the Soviet Union, were also heavily relied upon, with many being coerced or forced into military service. 

As the war progressed and Germany suffered significant losses on the battlefield, but the Heer was able to maintain manpower levels until 1945. By the end of the war in 1945, the Heer had suffered over 4 million casualties, including both deaths and injuries.

Luftwaffe

In the spring of 1939, the peacetime strength of the Luftwaffe was 400,000 men. Following the mobilization in late 1939, the number of men serving increased to almost 900,000. By Operation Barbarossa launched in 1941, the personnel strength had grown to 1.5 million. The largest personnel strength of the Luftwaffe was achieved during the period from 1942 to 1943, with 1.7 million men and women in uniform.

Kriegsmarine

The Kriegsmarine saw significant growth in manpower during the war. At the start of the war in 1939, the Kriegsmarine had around 50,000 personnel, which increased to a peak of 810,000 in 1944. 

However, as the war progressed and Germany’s resources were stretched thin, the Kriegsmarine struggled to maintain its manpower levels. With the majority of the losses being experienced sailors. This was due to the heavy losses that the Kriegsmarine suffered in the Battle of the Atlantic, which was a critical theater of the war.

In addition to these losses, the Kriegsmarine also struggled to recruit new personnel due to the worsening situation on the Eastern and Western fronts. Many potential recruits were being diverted to the army, which was seen as the more prestigious and important branch of the German military.

By the end of the war in 1945, the Kriegsmarine had approximately 700,000 personnel. However, due to the heavy losses suffered throughout the war, the Kriegsmarine was unable to maintain its strength, and many of the sailors were inexperienced and poorly trained.

Waffen–SS

The Waffen-SS, the combat branch of the SS, was initially formed in 1933 as a personal security force for Adolf Hitler. It later evolved into a significant military force during World War II, with its manpower levels growing significantly from 1939 through 1945.

At the start of the war in 1939, the Waffen-SS had approximately 35,000 personnel. By 1941, that number rose to 150,000, and by the end of 1942, it had reached 230,000. The Waffen-SS continued to grow throughout the war, and by 1945, its manpower had reached its peak at approximately 830,000 personnel.

The Waffen-SS was able to maintain its manpower levels through a combination of recruitment and conscription. It was often used as a tool for propaganda, with promises of better pay, training, and equipment compared to the regular army. Additionally, the Waffen-SS was often seen as a more prestigious and elite unit, which attracted many volunteers.

However, the Waffen-SS also relied heavily on conscription, particularly towards the end of the war when manpower shortages became more acute. This led to the conscription of individuals from occupied territories, including Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltic states.

Despite its significant manpower levels, the Waffen-SS suffered heavy losses throughout the war, particularly on the Eastern Front. By the end of the war, only a small number of its personnel had survived.

Civilian Militia

Volkssturm

The Volkssturm was a German national militia formed in 1944. It was created with the intention of mobilizing the civilian population for the defense of Germany against the advancing Allied forces. The Volkssturm’s manpower levels were relatively small compared to other branches of the German military.

The Volkssturm was formed out of a sense of desperation on the part of the German government, as the war was not going well, and the military was suffering from manpower shortages. There aren’t good estimates of the total number who served in the Volkssturm, but it is estimated that 40,000 participated in the Battle of Berlin.

The Volkssturm was made up of men between the ages of 16 and 60 who were not already serving in the military. The majority of the Volkssturm’s personnel were older men and teenagers who were too young to be conscripted into the regular army. They were often poorly trained and lacked adequate equipment and supplies. 

In terms of equipment, the Volkssturm was often equipped with outdated or improvised weapons, such as rifles from World War I or homemade grenades. They often had to scavenge for supplies and weapons, making their effectiveness in combat limited. One of the few modern weapons they were trained in was the use of panzerfaust antitank weapons.

The Volkssturm was not a particularly effective fighting force, and many of its personnel were captured or killed during the closing stages of the war. However, their resistance helped to slow down the Allied advance and buy time for the regular German military to regroup and prepare for defense.

German Armed Forces – Manpower Data

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Source Müller, Rolf-Dieter. “Hitler’s Wehrmacht, 1935–1945.” Lexington: University Press of Kentucky (2016). Page 36

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

German Armed Forces Manpower by Year

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

Military Divisions per Country 1939-45 in Europe

WW2 Germany Population, Statistics, and Numbers

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

Boot Camp

History

Boot camp has its origins in US military recruit training as soldiers were expected to possess strong endurance and be in good physical shape. The term “boot camp” specifically originated during the Spanish-American War when American military recruits wore leggings known as “boots.” As a result, their training camps became known as “boot camps.” The word ‘boot’ has evolved into military slang for a recruit still in boot camp.

The camps have a history dating back to the Spanish-American War in 1898, when training camps were established for new recruits. The camps focused on providing intensive physical and mental training to prepare soldiers for combat. Throughout World War I and World War II, boot camps emphasized physical fitness and discipline, with the goal of building a sense of teamwork and camaraderie among soldiers.

Differences Between Branches

US military boot camps were similar in many ways across the different branches, but there were also notable differences. The length varied between the different branches, but typically lasted several weeks to a few months, and each branch placed a different emphasis on certain skills or competencies. The training environment could differ between the branches, as could the culture and traditions, which influenced the nature of camp. Each branch had its own unique specializations and career paths, and while boot camp provided some basic training in these areas, further specialized training was often required afterwards.

The unique cultures and traditions of the different US military branches have had a significant influence on the nature of their respective camps. The Marine Corps, for example, has a strong emphasis on physical fitness, and this is reflected with a rigorous training program that includes running, obstacle courses, and martial arts training. The Army, on the other hand, emphasizes discipline and obedience, with a strict hierarchical structure and focus on following orders.

The Air Force may place a greater emphasis on technical skills, such as aircraft maintenance and operation, and the Navy may emphasize teamwork and camaraderie, with an emphasis on shipboard operations and working together as a team. The Coast Guard’s boot camp may emphasize specialized skills such as search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, and navigation.

While all boot camps share some common features, such as physical fitness training and discipline, the specific focus of each branch’s boot camp reflects its unique mission and identity. By emphasizing different skills and competencies, each branch can prepare its recruits for the unique challenges and demands of their respective roles in the military.

Duration

At the beginning of World War II, the duration of US military boot camp varied by branch. Here is a breakdown of the approximate length of boot camp for each branch:

• Army: 13 weeks
• Navy: 7-9 weeks
• Marine Corps: 8 weeks
• Coast Guard: 6 weeks
• Army Air Corps (later renamed the Air Force): 6 weeks

As the war progressed and the need for trained soldiers increased, the duration of boot camp was shortened in some branches in order to accelerate the training process. Here is a breakdown of the approximate length of boot camp for each branch later in the war:

• Army: 8-12 weeks
• Navy: 7-8 weeks
• Marine Corps: 8 weeks
• Coast Guard: 6 weeks
• Army Air Corps (later renamed the Air Force): 8 weeks

It’s worth noting that these durations are approximate and may have varied depending on the specific training program and needs of the military at that time.

Typical Daily Schedule

The daily schedule for a soldier in boot camp can vary depending on the branch of the military and the specific training program, but here is a general outline of what a typical day might look like:

5:00 AM – Wake up and personal hygiene

5:30 AM – Physical training, such as running or calisthenics

6:30 AM – Breakfast

7:30 AM – Classroom instruction, such as weapons training or military tactics

11:30 AM – Lunch

12:30 PM – More classroom instruction or hands-on training, such as obstacle courses or marksmanship training

5:00 PM – Dinner

6:00 PM – Personal time for hygiene, letter writing, or relaxation

9:00 PM – Lights out

It’s worth noting that the daily schedule for boot camp can be rigorous and demanding, with little free time or personal space. The goal is to instill discipline, teamwork, and resilience in soldiers, while also providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their military roles.

Challenging Aspects

Boot camp is a challenging and rigorous experience that pushes soldiers to their physical and mental limits. The intense physical training can be exhausting, and soldiers may be required to run long distances, complete obstacle courses, or engage in other physically demanding activities. Boot camp is also designed to challenge soldiers’ mental toughness and resilience, often subjecting them to stress and sleep deprivation to prepare them for the rigors of military life. Additionally, the strict rules and regulations that soldiers must follow can be challenging for some, who may be used to more freedom and autonomy in their daily lives.

In addition to the physical and mental challenges, boot camp places a strong emphasis on teamwork and camaraderie. Soldiers may be required to work closely with others, sometimes in high-pressure situations, in order to complete tasks and achieve goals. This requires a high level of discipline and a willingness to put the needs of the team above one’s individual interests. Finally, boot camp involves a significant adjustment to a new environment and way of life, requiring soldiers to adapt to new routines, expectations, and living conditions. While it can be difficult, many soldiers find that the experience helps them develop new skills, strengths, and resilience that serve them well throughout their military careers.

US Military Manpower 1939 – 1945 Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

Source: The National WWII Museum, “Research Starters: US Military by the Numbers”, https://www.nationalww2museum.org/students-teachers/student-resources/research-starters/research-starters-us-military-numbers, Date accessed June 26, 2022

Other Manpower Data Links

Comparative Military Manpower Sept 1939

Military Manpower by Nation 1940 to 1945

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.