Somme 1 July 1916: Tragedy and triumph

Osprey Campaign #169

by Andrew Robertshaw, Peter Dennis (Illustrator)

The first day of the Battle of the Somme of World War I (1914-1918) is still on record as having the largest number of deaths in any one day in any war. This book explores the myths of this infamous battle, and the use of mines, tunnels, gas and flame-throwers by the British in combination with innovative tactics such as smoke. Andrew Robertshaw analyses the first day of the battle, explaining how British tactics developed as a result of the experience of the Somme, and provides an overview of the events along the entire front line, examining the actions of two British Corps, VIII at Serre and XIII at Montauban.

Genres: Military History, History, World War I

96 pages, Paperback

First published May 11, 2006

Reviews

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent telling of the tragic 1916 battle in which 57,000 British soldier were killed.
It clears up some of the myths surrounding trench warfare during WW1.
I do not wish to out in spoilers, so I recommend that you read this book.