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Major Battles in World War 1“A soldier who can no longer advance must guard the territory already held, no matter what the cost….”Joseph Joffre, on the eve of the battle of the Marne, 1914

+Schlieffen Plan

Germany’s grand plan to conquer France The German would enter France at different points and

would simultaneously encircle the French Army Point was to capture Paris

+The First Battle of the Marne

Who: Allies (France and British Empire) vs. Central Powers(Germany)

When: September 6- September 10, 1914 Where: Banks of Marne River, France Outcome:

Battle was costly for both sides It was a victory for the Allies Foiled Germany’s plan to capture the France’s capital Forced to settle into Trench Warfare for remainder of War.

+The Battles of Ypres Who: Germany vs. British and

French When: October 19-November

22, 1914 Where: Flanders, Northeast

France and Belgium Outcome:

Ended the “Race to the Sea”

+The Battle of Verdun

Who: Germany vs. France When: February 21-December 18, 1916 Where: (120 miles) least of Paris Outcome:

Longest battle going from February to December The frontlines were nearly the same at the end of the battle

+The Second Battle of the Marne

Who: Allies (British Empire, France, Italy) Associated Powers (USA) vs. Central Powers (Germany)

When: July 15-August, 1918 Where: Marne River, France Outcome:

Losses were high for both sides It was a disaster for the Germans

Commanders started to realize that the war was over

+The Battle of the Somme

Who: British & French vs. Germany When: July-November 1916 Where: Eastern France Outcome:

Worst single day in British military history-20,000 killed; 40,000 wounded

Battle achieved goal Drawing German troops away from Verdun

+Why was World War 1 not a decisive victory?