A muddy German motorcyclist on the
Eastern Front in the fall of 1941

November 1
Eastern Front, Ukraine
Germany launches an offensive on Rostov, at the mouth of the Don River. The Soviet Ninth Army's deep and flexible defensive lines, together with the winter weather, obstruct the encirclement. A Frontal assault from the coast on the 17th is then counterbalanced by the Soviet Thirty-seventh Army's attack north of the city. The Germans capture Rostov on the 21st but the Soviets recapture it within eight days. General Gerd von Rundstedt then resigns after defying Hitler's orders concerning a tactical withdrawal from the city.

November 6
Politics, United States
A loan of US $1 billion is made to the Soviet Union for Lend-Lease purchases.

November 13
Sea War, Mediterranean
Two U-boats attack the British carriers Argus and Ark Royal en route to Gibraltar after flying off fighters to Malta. Ark Royal is badly hit. The carrier sails to within 25 miles (40 km) of Gibraltar when a fire breaks out and the ship sinks along with 70 aircraft.

November 15
Eastern Front, Soviet Union
The strength, mobility, morale, and logistical support of the German forces on the Eastern Front are severely affected by fierce winter weather. By the 27th, the panzer spearheads are only 20 miles (32 km) from Moscow, but the second phase of the advance is soon halted by Soviet counterattacks and freezing temperatures. Red Army troops, many newly equipped with the superb T-34 tank and Katyusha multiple rocket-launchers, are also properly clothed for winter operations. They are reinforced by partisan volunteers, whose hatred of the enemy is increased by Nazi atrocities against Soviet civilians.

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