Significant Battles in WWI

Up to1917

Verdun

Feb-Dec, 1916

Germany Vs. France

French Victory (only because they prevented the Germans from capturing Verdun)

What Happened?

Germans tried to capture the French city of Verdun

This was an attempt to break the stalemate by luring the French out of their trenches to protect this very important city

Use of poison gas and flamethrowers by the Germans

Impact on WWI

Over 1 million casualties; nothing was gained by either side.

Showed how futile and senseless the war was

https://app.discoveryeducation.com/learn/videos/b5f35714-64a6-4530-a966-472970470094

Somme

July - Nov., 1916

Allied Powers (Britain & France) Vs. Germany

Allied victory (however the front lines barely moved)

What Happened?

Initially launched to take the pressure off of Verdun

There was a multi-day artillery bombardment, which was followed by a British offensive (leave trenches to attack the German trenches)

British were slaughtered on the first day; approx. 60,000 casualties (20,000 dead)

Impact on WWI

Over 1 million casualties; attrition battle

Tanks used in battle

Showed futility of frontal assaults

https://app.discoveryeducation.com/learn/videos/6c33814f-3db4-4522-923b-1ad7c21bf68e

Passchendaele (3rd Ypres)

July- Nov., 1917

Allied Powers Vs. Germany

Allied Victory (minimal gains, mainly through attrition)

What Happened?

Another attempt at an offensive - especially to gain control of a key railroad (German supply line)

A heavy rainfall made conditions even more difficult

Impact on WWI

Another attrition battle; soldiers were demoralized & hopeless

Approximately 600,000 casualties

These attrition battles took a huge toll on Germany - just prior to U.S. soldiers arriving on the Western Front

https://app.discoveryeducation.com/learn/videos/e550192f-82bd-4e31-b8fb-bd9e86adbfdf