El Alamein

El Alamein, Egyptian city 65 mi (105 km) east of Alexandria. The city is linked by coastal railroad to Alexandria, and an oil field is in operation nearby. During World War II Britain defeated Germany in 2 decisive battles at El Alamein (1942), preventing the conquest of Egypt. The battles at El Alamein are noted for the brilliant commanders facing each other—Montgomery for the British defeated Rommel of Germany.

See also: World War II.