Bolero

"Bolero" was a United States military strategy during World War II focused on building up Allied forces in Great Britain in preparation for an invasion of Europe. This plan, code-named "Bolero," was part of a larger strategy that also included "Sledgehammer" (a potential invasion in 1942) and "Roundup" (a larger invasion planned for 1943).1

The "Europe first" principle guided Allied strategy, prioritizing the defeat of Germany over Japan. While the U.S. initially favored "Bolero," the British advocated for an invasion of North Africa, known as "Operation Torch." Ultimately, the North African campaign was chosen, with "Torch" beginning in November 1942. This operation aimed to secure the Mediterranean theater and engage Axis powers in North Africa, ultimately contributing to the eventual invasion of Europe.12