Battle of Verdun
Verdun, France
What happened
German General Erich von Falkenhayn and Crown Prince Wilhelm attacked the French city of Verdun, defended by French armies under Philippe Pétain and later Robert Nivelle. In February 1916 the German army attacked the forts around Verdun, in northeast France, and captured Fort Douaumont. Pétain ordered that there be no retreat, and supplies poured in along a single road that the French called the 'Sacred Way'. The Germans came within about 4 km of the city, but by December French counter-attacks had won back the lost forts.
Why it matters
Result: French victory. Leaders: Erich von Falkenhayn / Paul von Hindenburg against Joseph Joffre / Noël de Castelnau. Why it matters: It was the longest battle of World War I, lasting ten months, and became a symbol of French determination. It also showed the terrible destructiveness of the war.
What came next
Falkenhayn was replaced in August 1916, and the German attacks ended in September. Nivelle's words, 'You will not let them pass', became a famous French rallying cry.
Did you know?
On the 'Sacred Way' road from Bar-le-Duc to Verdun, a truck passed every 14 seconds after March 1916, carrying soldiers and supplies.
Timeline
- 21 February 1916The German attack on Verdun begins.
- 25 February 1916The Germans capture Fort Douaumont.
- June 1916The Germans capture Fort Vaux.
- 18 December 1916The battle ends.