January 2
Politics, United States
President Franklin D. Roosevelt announces a program to produce 200 freighters, called 'Liberty' ships, to support the Allied Atlantic convoys.

January 3-15
Africa, Libya
General Sir Archibald Wavell's Middle East Force, renamed XIII Corps, with air and naval support, resumes its offensive into Cyrenaica. In Australia's first land action of the war, the Australian 6th Division leads the attack to capture Bardia, just across Libya's border with Egypt, on the 15th. Some 70,000 Italians, plus large amounts of equipment, are captured.

January 7-22
Africa, Libya
After the British 7th Armored Brigade encircles Tobruk, the Australian 6th Division leads the assault against the Italian defenders of the port, who eventually capitulate on the 22nd. Some 30,000 Italians, as well as port facilities, and vital supplies of fuel, food, and water, are seized. Major General Sir Richard O'Connor immediately sends forces farther west along the coast to capture the port of Benghazi.

A column of British tanks prepares for action against Axis forces in Libya

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