![]() The beginning attacks were heavy against the undermanned fortress, with 200,000 French troops going against 1 million German troops. Staying in Verdun was not purely for political reasons, as German occupancy would open up attack lines to the French on three sides at once. The plan was to take the undermanned fortress forcing the French to defend it and deplete their own forces. As Verdun was considered a sentimental icon to the French, it was these same sentiments that German Chief of Staff Erich von Falkenhayn would play on to lure them into a defeat. The French people and Army viewed Verdun as a huge symbol in their country, with its strong defenses that were boosted since the Franco-Prussian war of 1870-1871. The biggest decider for France sticking with the attack was political in nature, and not due to giving up a huge tactical advantage. Several demotions and promotions on each side took place, and at one point Germany had the French right where they wanted them. They faced more resistance than expected, and eventually resorted to chemical warfare in the form of phosgene gas.Įven with the use of their secret weapon, the defense first measures of Germany against the fortified Verdun led to an eventual loss and retreat by the Germans. The Germans who had the numbers still had to claw their way to a victory, slowly taking down one fort at a time and pushing the French forces backwards. ![]() Over 1 million German troops were in on the attack, but the bombardment only led to them capturing the French front line trenches. Even with the fortifications of Verdun, the French Army was badly outnumbered. This, combined with the siege against Verdun on February 21st 1916, became a big opportunity for the Germans. ![]() The Germans hatched a plan to keep Britain busy by using unrestricted submarine warfare against all merchant shipping, with the intention of starving Britain out. That didn’t mean Britain wasn’t a threat, and was considered far from it. If they refused, they too would be defeated, as there forces would be severely crippled after the defeat of the allied forces with France. So the fight need not be brought to them, as they would take care of themselves.Īs for trying to crush France, this would also take care of their allies as Britain would be more open to seeking terms with Germany. Their reasoning was solid, as it looked like Russia was on the verge of withdrawing from the war. Germany considered the key to winning the war was firmly prioritized by taking control of the Western front with France. The German siege of Verdun was considered the longest battle of World War I, and was important to all sides. ![]()
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