September 1914. The German army is nearing Paris. People around the world expect a German victory in a matter of days. Then, the unexpected happens. After weeks of retreating, French and British forces make a stand east of Paris in what comes to be called the First Battle of the Marne. Against all odds, the Germans are pushed back and Paris is saved. The Allies call it the "Miracle of the Marne," but it has come at a cost of approximately half a million casualties on both sides. It has also ended any hopes of a quick war of movement. With the battle ended, both sides start digging trenches. Over the next years, trench warfare will dominate the Western Front from the North Sea to Switzerland, bringing with it new technologies, new horrors, and a new word: stalemate.

Part 3 of 10. Visit www.macarthurmemorial.org for more free educational resources.

свернуть