Summary In July 1916, British commander in chief General Sir Douglas Haig launched a major offensive along the Western Front. On July 1, after an 8 day artillery barrage, 120,000 men launched the attack and the Battle of the Somme began. The barrage had little effect and British troops were slaughtered. Among those killed included 700 Newfoundlanders who died less than 100 meters front their trench. In total, there were 60,000 casualties the first day but the battle would continue for another 5 months with more than 100,000 casualties in total. Canada's three divisions - 60,000 men - were redeployed from Ypres to the Somme. Ordered to capture the village of Courcelette the Canadians were successful but at a high cost in lives and the complete destruction of the village. Their next objective was Regina Trench and several attempts were made to take it. On October 21 the fourth attempt proved more successful. In total 25,000 Canadians died or were wounded. In total, they gained 4 kilometers.
Directed : Unknown
Written : Unknown
Stars : R.H. Thomson Norm Christie Victor A. Young Matthew Sharp
Genres : History War Documentary
Countries of origin : Canada
Official sites : kingandempire.com
Language : English
Production companies : History Television Knowledge Network Millennium Bureau of Canada
Summary In July 1916, British commander in chief General Sir Douglas Haig launched a major offensive along the Western Front. On July 1, after an 8 day artillery barrage, 120,000 men launched the attack and the Battle of the Somme began. The barrage had little effect and British troops were slaughtered. Among those killed included 700 Newfoundlanders who died less than 100 meters front their trench. In total, there were 60,000 casualties the first day but the battle would continue for another 5 months with more than 100,000 casualties in total. Canada's three divisions - 60,000 men - were redeployed from Ypres to the Somme. Ordered to capture the village of Courcelette the Canadians were successful but at a high cost in lives and the complete destruction of the village. Their next objective was Regina Trench and several attempts were made to take it. On October 21 the fourth attempt proved more successful. In total 25,000 Canadians died or were wounded. In total, they gained 4 kilometers.
Genres : History War Documentary
Countries of origin : Canada
Official sites : kingandempire.com
Language : English
Production companies : History Television Knowledge Network Millennium Bureau of Canada
