Question

What was the outcome of the Battle of Verdun?

Answer 1

Hint: The Battle of Verdun was initially outlined by the German Chief of General Staff, Erich von Falkenhayn. The motive was to destroy the French army through the full deployment of British forces.

Complete answer:
The Battle of Verdun was fought from 21 February-15 December 1916 and became the longest battle in modern history. It was initially outlined by the German Chief of General Staff, Erich von Falkenhayn to secure victory for Germany on the Western front. The motive was to destroy the French army before the Allies grew in power through the full deployment of British forces. Without France’s 96 divisions, the Allies would not be able to continue fighting in the West.

Outcome of the Battle of Verdun:
i) Large number of casualties: The battle proved to be vicious because of the desire of the Germans to fight to the last man. All that was to make sure that Verdun and its forts were abducted by German forces. The casualties were approximated at 550,000 men for the French and 430,000 for the Germans.
ii) Dismissal of the German chief of General staff, Erich von Falkenhayn: This was because the initial plan failed awfully. The Germans believed that they would quickly capture Verdun and consequently Paris. But on the contrary what happened was that Germany lost the battle along with many soldiers. Later, Paul von Hindenburg was appointed.
iii) It uplifted the French morale: The battle took place at the time when the French were down and out. The battle was meant to destroy France and force them out of the war. But the French proved to be determined and fought bravely to win the battle. It provided a boost to their morale and showed that they were also a strong nation with logistical ability.

Note: Verdun was a fortress city on the River Meuse, and a strategically-vital link in the French sector of the Allied line on the Western Front. It was also a symbolic fortress and a national treasure to the French people.