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Write an account of how trench warfare on the Western Front led to a war of attrition - AQA - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 3
Write an account of how trench warfare on the Western Front led to a war of attrition. [8 marks]
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write an account of how trench warfare on the Western Front led to a war of attrition - AQA - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how trench warfare led to a war of attrition
Answer
Trench warfare, primarily seen on the Western Front during World War I, resulted in prolonged stalemates between opposing forces. The static nature of trenches created an environment where both sides were forced to dig in rather than advance, leading to excessive and relentless casualties without significant territorial gains.
The desire to break the deadlock caused each side to increasingly rely on firepower. Artillery barrages became the norm, intending to destroy enemy fortifications before an infantry assault. However, despite devastating bombardments, soldiers often found themselves facing strong defenses, leading to heavy losses. Thus, commanders realized that overwhelming force was needed to make any progress, contributing to the cycle of attrition as both sides sought to wear each other down rather than achieve a decisive victory.
Additionally, the introduction of new technologies, such as machine guns and poison gas, heightened the lethality of the battlefield. Defensive positions in trenches were often fortified, making it even harder for attacking troops to succeed, exacerbating the casualty rates. This environment of constant engagement and technological stalemate defined the war of attrition characteristic of the Western Front, as both sides aimed to outlast the other.
Step 2
Address the consequences of trench warfare
Answer
The consequences of trench warfare went beyond mere statistics. The psychological impact on soldiers was profound, as they endured not only physical danger but also the horrors of life in muddy, disease-ridden trenches. Many soldiers suffered from what was known then as 'shell shock,' now understood as PTSD. This contributed to a loss of morale and an increased difficulty in maintaining fighting capability among troops.
Moreover, as the war dragged on, public perception began to shift. The initial enthusiasm for the war diminished, leading to increased anti-war sentiment in various nations. Governments faced pressure from citizens as the human cost continued to rise, resulting in social unrest and calls for peace. This evolving landscape placed additional strains on military strategies, as leaders were compelled to seek ways to end the conflict without capitulating.