Trench Warefare in Battles The Battle of Verdun The Battle of the Somme

Trench Life Wet, Soggy, Rat and Lice Infested Food Shortages Trench foot – foot rot Shell Shock – soldiers get Post-Traumatic Stress syndrome Spent long periods of time in Trenches

What is a “Battle of Attrition?” “Bleed the Enemy White” Meaning: wear down the enemy with continuous pressure so that they surrender no matter what the cost

February 21st – December 18th, 1916 The Battle of Verdun February 21st – December 18th, 1916

Where the Battle Occurred Fort of Verdun Extreme significance to French Heavy French fortification In short, it was of greater value symbolically than strategically.

What happened Feb. to Dec. Germany offensive of French lines Germany gained land French fight back to regain land Result: French casualties - 550,000 German casualties - 434,000 ½ of total were fatalities.  The only real effect of the battle was the irrevocable wounding of both armies.  No tactical or strategic advantage had been gained by either side.

The Battle of the Somme July 1st – November 18th, 1916

Where did it Occur

What happened Britain bombarded Germany for 8 days end - June 28, 1916 Walked across lines to see what little was left of Germany Germany was ready

Result of 1st Day Loss of 58,000 British troops (one third of them killed) on the first day of the battle Became the Greatest loss in British military history

Result of Battle Ended mid-Nov. 420,000 British casualties 200,000 French casualties.  500,000 German Casualties All for the British and French gain of 12 kilometres of ground