The Battle of the Somme

Question 1

Why it Happened:

Answer 1

The Allies wanted to break through German lines and relieve pressure on the French forces fighting at Verdun.
It was also meant to wear down the German army and win a decisive victory.

Question 2

The Plan:

Answer 2

Before the attack, the British bombarded German trenches for a week, hoping to destroy their defenses.
Soldiers believed they could easily cross “No Man’s Land” to capture the German positions.

Question 3

The Reality:

Answer 3

The bombardment failed to destroy German defenses, and many soldiers were caught in barbed wire or mown down by machine guns.
On the first day, the British suffered 57,000 casualties, the worst single day in British military history.

Question 4

Life During the Battle:

Answer 4

Soldiers lived in muddy trenches, enduring constant artillery fire, poor conditions, and disease.
“No Man’s Land” was a deadly area filled with craters, barbed wire, and constant danger.

Question 5

Outcome:

Answer 5

After 141 days of fighting, the Allies only advanced about 6 miles.
Over 1 million soldiers were killed or wounded on both sides.

Question 6

Why It’s Important:

Answer 6

The Battle of the Somme showed how deadly modern warfare had become.
It also highlighted the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers, though the military strategies used were criticized for their high human cost.