The Battle of the Somme (1965438+July 2006 to165438+1October) was launched by Fei Xia (then commander-in-chief of the French army).

His purpose was to force Germany to withdraw from the Russian front, which dealt a fatal blow to the Germans and relieved the pressure on Verdun.

Since there was no strategic goal in Somme, when the British commander Sir douglas haig was first informed of the battle, he preferred to choose a defensive zone like Flanders, which was more convenient for attacking.

Although he is not under the jurisdiction of Fei Xia, his policy is that if he doesn't feel that any disaster is coming, it is wise to obey the wishes of the French commander in France.

Before long, Haig was completely ensnared by Fei Xia's plan, and he forgot that the selection of the Somme region lacked tactical considerations.

The activity started on June 24th 19 16 and ended in mid-October.

Its purpose is to break through the German defense line, thus turning into mobile warfare, and at the same time reducing the pressure of the German army on the French army in Verdun.

At that time, the front line crossed the Somme from south to north, more than 50 kilometers east of Amiens. The Germans built the so-called "strongest" defense line in this area, including three positions and some intermediate positions.

The main position has tunnel fortifications, and there are multiple layers of barbed wire in front of the position.

The defenders are the second German army, with a defensive front of 58 kilometers, 9 front divisions and 4 reserve divisions.