Battles & Campaigns · 1916
Battle of Pozières
Pozières, Somme, France
What happened
During the Battle of the Somme, Australian troops captured the village of Pozières on the night of 22–23 July. German forces tried again and again to retake it over the following weeks. The Allies then pushed on to the German lines beyond the village.
Why it matters
The British held the high ground north and east of the village, which let them threaten the German stronghold at Thiepval from behind. In six weeks the Australians suffered about as many losses as in eight months at Gallipoli.
What came next
The Australians pushed toward Mouquet Farm and were then replaced by the Canadian Corps.
Did you know?
Australia's official historian Charles Bean wrote that the ridge 'is more densely sown with Australian sacrifice than any other place on earth'.
Timeline
- 1 Jul 1916Battle of the Somme begins.
- 23 Jul 1916Australian troops take Pozières.
- 3 Sep 1916The battle ends.
- 26–28 Sep 1916Battle of Thiepval Ridge.