Second Battle of the Marne
The Second Battle of the Marne was fought from July 15 to August 6, 1918, during the final year of World War I. This battle marked a significant turning point in the war, leading to the eventual German retreat from France.
Background
Following the Spring Offensive launched by Germany in March 1918, which initially saw significant German gains, the Allies, including France, Britain, and the newly arrived American Expeditionary Forces, managed to halt the German advance. The German strategy was to deliver a decisive blow before the arrival of more American troops could turn the tide of the war.
The Battle
- Initial German Offensive: On July 15, 1918, the Germans launched an attack on both sides of Reims aiming to split the French forces. This operation, known as the Champagne-Marne Offensive, saw the Germans using gas attacks and artillery barrages.
- Allied Counterattack: The French, under the command of General Ferdinand Foch, were prepared for this offensive. They had anticipated the attack, and the French Fourth Army, along with American troops, effectively repelled the German assault.
- Aisne-Marne Counteroffensive: Following the failure of the German offensive, the Allies launched a counterattack on July 18. This operation included significant contributions from the French First Army, British Expeditionary Force, and American forces. The counteroffensive was highly successful, pushing the Germans back across the Marne River.
Outcome
The Second Battle of the Marne was crucial for several reasons:
- It ended the last major German offensive of the war.
- The Allied victory led to the collapse of the German Hindenburg Line defense system.
- The battle significantly boosted Allied morale and demonstrated the effectiveness of the combined Allied forces, particularly the integration of American troops.
- It marked the beginning of the Hundred Days Offensive, a series of offensives by the Allies that led to the end of the war.
Legacy
The Second Battle of the Marne is remembered for its strategic importance in turning the tide of World War I. It showcased the effective cooperation between the Allied nations and highlighted the impact of the American contribution to the war effort.
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