Question 1

Why did the First World War end up in a stalemate?

Accepted Answer

The stalemate occurred because defensive weapons like machine guns, barbed wire, and artillery were far more effective than offensive tactics. Armies could not advance across open ground without being mown down. The Schlieffen Plan's failure meant both sides dug in, creating a line of trenches from Switzerland to the English Channel. Neither side could outflank the other, leading to a war of attrition.

Question 2

What was life like in the trenches?

Accepted Answer

Life in the trenches was miserable. Soldiers faced constant danger from snipers, artillery shells, and poison gas. They lived in mud, with poor sanitation leading to diseases like trench foot and lice. Rats and other vermin were common. Soldiers had little sleep and often went days without hot food. However, there were also periods of quiet where they repaired trenches, played cards, or wrote letters home.

Question 3

How did generals try to break the stalemate?

Accepted Answer

Generals tried several methods: massive artillery bombardments to destroy enemy trenches (e.g., before the Somme), new weapons like tanks and poison gas, and attacks on other fronts (e.g., Gallipoli). They also used tactics like 'bite and hold' (limited advances) and, by 1918, infiltration tactics (stormtroopers). However, most attempts failed until 1918 due to the strength of defences.

Question 4

Why was the Battle of the Somme so important?

Accepted Answer

The Battle of the Somme (July-November 1916) was a key example of the stalemate and attrition. It was intended to relieve pressure on the French at Verdun. The first day saw 60,000 British casualties, the worst in British history. The battle ended with minimal gains (about 12 km) and over a million casualties. It showed the futility of frontal assaults and the horror of industrialised war.

Question 5

Did the stalemate ever end?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the stalemate ended in 1918. The German Spring Offensive (March 1918) initially broke through, but the Allies counter-attacked with fresh American troops, tanks, and improved tactics. The Hundred Days Offensive (August-November 1918) pushed the Germans back, leading to the armistice on 11 November 1918. The stalemate was broken by a combination of exhaustion, new tactics, and the arrival of US forces.

Question 6

How did the stalemate affect civilians at home?

Accepted Answer

The stalemate led to total war, meaning civilians were fully mobilised. Governments introduced conscription, rationing, and censorship. Propaganda was used to maintain morale and demonise the enemy. Women took on jobs in factories (e.g., munitions) and farming. The war also caused economic hardship, with rising prices and shortages. The home front was essential to sustaining the war effort.

The First World War: stalemate

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