The Battle of the Somme Flashcards
When did the Battle of the Somme take place?
From July 1 to November 18, 1916.
What was the main objective of the Battle of the Somme?
To relieve pressure on the French at Verdun and break through German lines.
Who commanded the British forces during the Battle of the Somme?
General Douglas Haig.
How many British soldiers were killed or wounded on the first day of the Battle of the Somme?
Over 57,000, making it the bloodiest day in British military history.
What was the role of the “creeping barrage” tactic in the battle?
Artillery fire moved ahead of advancing infantry to clear enemy defenses.
Why is the Battle of the Somme significant in terms of new technology?
It marked the first use of tanks in warfare, though they had limited success.
What was the outcome of the Battle of the Somme?
The Allies advanced about 6 miles but suffered over 1 million casualties combined.
How did the battle impact German morale and resources?
It strained German resources and morale, but they held their defensive positions.
What role did propaganda play in the Battle of the Somme?
Both sides used the battle to boost morale and justify the war effort.
How did the Battle of the Somme affect public opinion about the war?
The high casualties and limited gains led to criticism of military leadership and strategies.
