As 1916 comes to a close and we welcome 1917, here is a look back at just a few of the main events of the last year. Starting us off was the introduction of conscription in Britain on 27th January. This was due to the drop in number in men volunteering, mixed with the sheer amount the were being injured or killed on a daily basis.
On the 21st February, German soldiers launched a huge attack against French soldiers at Verdun. This was the first time Germany used flamethrowers and storm troops.
By the 19th April President Wilson was publicly calling for Germany to stop their unrestricted u-boat policy with immediate effect. This was because German u-boats were sinking all ships in enemy waters without warning, whether it was war related or civilian.
27th April saw Lord Kitchener asked the United States Of American for their military participation within Europe. Just two days later on the 29th April, British Empire forces surrendered to Turkish forces in Mesopotamia with 13,000 prisoners being captured.
The 31st May till the 1st June saw the Battle of Jutland take place, the largest sea battle so far to take place.
1st July saw the beginning of the battle of the Somme, with an estimated 60,000 British men being injured or killed on the first day alone. This battle would continue all through the summer and well into Autumn/ Winter before it would end.
15th September saw tanks used for the first time, on the Somme battlefield. It wouldn't be until the 18th November that the battle of the Somme comes to an end.
Although by this time there had been many a Zeppelin raid on London, the 28th November saw the first air raid over London carried out by German aeroplanes.
The last main event of the year was on the 7th December when the news was announced that David Lloyd George was replacing Asquith as British Prime Minister. We wait with baited breath to see how he fares in the new year.
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