The battle of the Somme took place in northern France close to the river of Somme. It started, 1 July 1916 and ended, 18 November 1916. The commander who planned the battle was was Field Marshal Haig
The battle fought to protect the French troops in Verdun, France. The German's wanted to wipe out the French Army and then attack Britain.
Many young soldiers with not much experience fought in the Battle of Somme increasing casualties. The British tested their new tanks against the German trenches.
This plan had some flaws. The bombardment and cavalry attack made no man's land very sludgy and difficult to move. The German's used machine guns to kill the cavalry easily.
Haig bombarded the German positions and then ordered infantry to advance on the Germans holding their position for a charge of cavalry.
During the battle the Germans hid in secret underground bunkers. They would be able to mount machine guns from dug-outs. Haig delayed the infantry charge until 10 minutes after the bombardment meaning the Germans had time to prepare.
The outcome of the battle was that 1.2 million men were killed or injured. British forces had gained 7 miles of territory and Haig's reputation was contentious. Some felt he was a hero and others a failure.
The objective of protecting what was left of the French Army was a success.
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