Q&A · 3:48:42-3:49:05

Why the Allies withdrew from Norway in 1940

The deteriorating campaign in France prompted the decision to withdraw from Norway and concentrate forces in France.

Allied Strategy British Army Fall Of France Norwegian Campaign Troop Deployment World War II

Question

Did withdrawing from Norway benefit Britain and France, and was staying an option?

Short answer

The aim was to concentrate forces in France as its campaign deteriorated; whether staying in Norway was viable is left unresolved.

Notes

France took priority as the campaign there deteriorated. The aim was to withdraw forces from Norway and concentrate them in France in the hope of winning there. Whether remaining in Norway offered a workable alternative is left unresolved.