Notes # 10 War in Europe
Schlieffen Plan Germans did not want to fight the Russians and French at the same time. They adopted the Schlieffen Plan which had the Germans invade France through Belgium. If they knock France out first, then they can focus on Russia.
Miracle on the Marne German troops overwhelmed the British, French and Belgium troops. As the Germans got close to Paris, French troops were able to rally (using taxi’s to transport troops), and the allies pushed the Germans past the Marne River during a battle that lasted from the 5th to the 12th of September, 1914.
???What might happen???
???What might happen???
Trench Warfare After their defeat at the Marne, the Germans start to build trenches to defend the territory they had conquered. Soon a line of trenches is built on both sides, stretching from Switzerland to the English Channel.
The First Battle of Ypres From October 19 to November 22, 1914, the Germans attacked the Belgium stronghold of Ypres, hoping to take control of many port cities by the English Channel. Though the British Army was almost defeated, more men, like troops from India, arrived in time to save the day.
Winter After Ypres, both sides prepared for a long winter living in horrible trench conditions.
???Question Time??? Schlieffen Plan: Miracle on the Marne: Battle of Ypres:
!!!Meanwhile!!!
Russian Front On August 17th 1914, the Russians invaded Germany, but were defeated at the Battle of Tannenberg which lasted from August 26 – 30. This massive defeat prevented Russia from really ever threatening Germany.
However, though not able to beat the Germans, the Russians won several victories against the Austro- Hungarian Empire. This caused many German troops (who were needed to fight in the west) to be moved to fight the Russians.
???Question Time??? Germans vs. Russians: Austro-Hungarians vs. Russians:
Early War What is the war like now at the end of 1914 on the Western Front? What is the war like now at the end of 1914 on the Eastern Front?