Topic 13 (Trenches) - British sector of the westen front Flashcards

1
Q

Define the term ‘trench warfare’

A

When two opposing forces take up defensive positions facing each other, protecting themselves by producing a ditch in which they can avoid enemy fire

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2
Q

What was the difference between trenches in 1914 and trenches in 1916?

A

I914:

  • hastily dug by men on the front line, using shovels
  • simply trenches made of mud
  • was seen as a temporary defence

1916:

  • were desiged to last much longer
  • sides of trenches were made of wood
  • sandbags were placed at the top of each trench to provide protection against shrapnel fire
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3
Q

identify and describe three different types of trenches in a typical trench system

A
  1. Front line trench: most dangerous type of trench to be in as enemy would easily assault
  2. Support trench: Would contain concrete bunkers housing machine guns as this trench would strike back in case of attack
  3. Reserve trench: Where men were kept safe from harm before they had to go to the front line
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4
Q

What new tactic to try to defeat trench warfare was trialled at Hill 60 near Ypres and give 2 reasons why it was thought that this tactic would to be successful

A

Tactic: Mines were dug at Hill 60
- It was thought to be successful in avoiding incoming artillery fire and at surprising the enemy by going underneath rather than over the top

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5
Q

Describe two features of the tunnel, cave and quarry system at Arras

A
  1. Tunnels were build to link up with the existing quarry and cave systems and this meant there was a well-protected 12 mile stretch for troops to move safely
  2. The caves were expansive and could hold up to 700 beds so it gave soldiers a place to rest on the front lines. It also meant that hospitals could be set up safely in the cave system
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6
Q

Why were the germans first to set up the trench system?

A

The germans were in retreat after the Battle of the Marne and needed time to regroup, which is why they built trenches

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7
Q

Name one advantage that setting up trenches first gave the Germans over the British Trench system and why was this important

A

The German system was on higher grounds than the British System, which meant it was less likely to become waterlogged

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8
Q

Identify three problems with terrain on the front line, and how were they a problem for those performing medicine on the front line

A
  1. Ground was muddy, uneven and waterlogged: hard to transport casualties safely back from front lines
  2. Communications being disrupted by enemy fire breaking lines: Hard to inform medical services of where to find casualties on the front line
  3. Muddy terrain on the battlefront: Wounds could easily get infected as bacteria could grow in mud
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