Hell in Hong Kong

The Battle of Hong Kong (December 8–25, 1941) was the first place Canadians fought a land battle in the Second World War. 

Created by Canada’s History 

 — Posted December 9, 2016
Help share the stories that make Canada strong

At Canada’s History, we highlight our nation’s past by telling stories that illuminate the people, places, and events that unite us as Canadians, while understanding that diverse past experiences can shape multiple perceptions of our history.

Canada’s History is a registered charity. Generous contributions from readers like you help us explore and celebrate Canada’s diverse stories and make them accessible to all through our free online content.

Please donate to Canada’s History today. Thank you!

Support Canada's History

To learn more about the Battle of Hong Kong, read “War Crimes” by Nathan M. Greenfield.

Themes associated with this article

Related to Military & War

Canada in the Korean War

Seventy years after the 1953 armistice, Canadian War Museum historian Andrew Burtch and Chief of the Defence Staff General Wayne Eyre discuss Canada’s involvement on the Korean Peninsula, from wartime to the present day.

Podcast

Royal Newfoundland Regiment in the War of 1812

Members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment were one of the most versatile groups of the entire war, on either side of the border. And yet, they were never given the battle honours that they should have had. Episode 12 of the War of 1812 Video Field Guide.

Video

War Crimes

In 2011, on the seventieth anniversary of the Battle of Hong Kong, we revisited the terrible fate of the Canadians who were sent to protect the British colony.

Article

After Victory: The Legacy of the Necessary War

The Second World War led to fundamental changes to Canada, ushering in a new country forged by a generation’s service and sacrifice.

Article