![]() ![]() This was a far cry from the expectations of either side at the outbreak of war in 1914. Recruitment had become a concern, volunteer armies were now being trained and readied for front line action. The professional forces of all of the combatant nations were strained. They introduced new weapons, with Gas having been used in 1915. Both sides sought to break through the Trench networks and gain decisive victories. War was becoming increasingly one of attrition. The Allies had dug Trenches to prevent further advances, the Germans had dug in having already gained ground. The expected war of movement had developed into one based around trenches. Given the objectives were to relieve pressure and inflict damage it is hard to assess who won the Battle of the Somme.īy 1916 the Western Front had become quite static. The first day of the Battle of the Somme is remembered due to the heavy casualties suffered by the British Army, 57470 killed, wounded or captured. The Allies had also agreed to launch offensives on several fronts against the Central Powers. ![]() Another objective was to inflict as much damage as possible on the Germans. British forces along with those from France and the British Empire intended to relieve pressure on French troops at Verdun. Lasting 141 days it was one of the longest continuous battles of the First World War. ![]() The Battle of the Somme began on July 1st 1916. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply.AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |