Western Front (Trench Warfare) Flashcards
(13 cards)
What did the Germans begin doing to avoid losing territory in France?
Digging trenches
This was a strategic move to maintain their positions during the war.
What action did the British and French take in response to the German trenches?
Began to dig their own trenches
This was part of the trench warfare strategy that defined the Western Front.
What was the Western Front characterized by in terms of territorial gain?
Neither side gained more than a few miles of ground
This illustrates the stalemate nature of trench warfare.
What were the trenches primarily used for?
Protection from enemy fire
Despite their purpose, conditions in the trenches were often horrendous.
What emotions did soldiers experience when going ‘over the top’?
Anxiety replaced by terror
This reflects the intense psychological pressure faced by soldiers in combat.
What threats did soldiers face when advancing towards enemy lines?
Machine guns, rifles, and shells
These were significant dangers during assaults on enemy positions.
What did units do even after suffering heavy casualties?
Regrouped, reformed, and got ready for the next attack
This showcases the resilience of military units during the war.
What were common conditions in the trenches?
No smiling faces, no clean uniforms, scattered equipment, boredom, and sleep
These conditions contributed to the overall morale and health issues of soldiers.
What was a significant health issue soldiers faced due to trench conditions?
Trench foot
A fungal infection caused by immersion in cold water, affecting many soldiers.
How was the environment in the trenches described?
The stink of war
This included stinking mud, rotting corpses, lingering gas, and unwashed bodies.
What measures were taken to protect against disease in the trenches?
Application of chloride and lime
These measures, however, only added to the unpleasant odors.
What happened at night in the trenches?
Hives of activity
Troops would attend to vital supply and maintenance tasks despite the risks.
What risks did soldiers face at night in the trenches?
Night bombardment or trench raids
These dangers added to the tension of nighttime activities.
