One Battle

The Battle of Verdun

During World War One on February 21, 1916, German troops started to fight the French position next to Verdun.  The German generals decided that a huge decisive attack on France would ameliorate the chance to win and also help to break off the alliance obligation of the British armed force.

At first only 200,000 French troups faced a million German soldiers. The French were forced to retreat on several occasions through the summer and early autumn of 1916. In consequence of the Russian offensive, the Germans had to strike off their troops out of the combat areas.

Counter attacks by the French and Americans recaptured several forts along the front by early November.  During the six weeks that followed, the French infantry gained several kilometers at Verdun.

Verdun was the longest battle of the First World War.  It ended on December 18, 1916, and became a symbol of national glory for France.

American soldiers remained in France for several more years and provided a successful thrust again the German front on August 30, 1918, pushing the front back to south of Verdun.  Finally, on November 11, 1918, an armistice was reached between the Germans and the Allies.  American President Woodrow Wilson provided critical negotiation  based upon his doctrine for future peace and stability.