The German Army in the Spring Offensives 1917: Arras, Aisne and Champagne

The Allies planned to launch massive attacks North and South of the Somme in 1916, but the German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line forced the French to rethink. The French embarked on a major attack in the Aisne area and along the Chemin des Dames, with the British conducting large-scale diversionary operations around Arras. The French suffered disastrously and fell to the British to step up the pressure, which they did at a terrible price. This latest work by Jack Sheldon describes the event from the defenders' perspective, revealing the methods the Germans used to smash the French attacks and Oberst Fritz von Lossbergs transformation of the defenses in the Arras front.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

After the titanic battles of 1916, the Allied Armies meticulously devised grand plans to launch massive offensives both north and south of the Somme. However, a significant development occurred in March 1917 when the German forces retreated to the Hindenburg Line, prompting the newly appointed French CinC General Nivelle to reassess his strategy. Consequently, the French initiated a substantial offensive in the Aisne area and along the Chemin des Dames, while the British conducted extensive diversionary operations around Arras. The French paid a heavy price for their endeavors, suffering catastrophic losses and becoming incapacitated for further offensive operations. It was then left to the British to intensify the pressure, albeit at a dreadful cost.

This latest work by esteemed military historian Jack Sheldon offers a unique perspective on the events of Spring 1917, focusing specifically on the defensive side. It delves into the methods employed by the Germans to thwart the French attacks and the remarkable transformation of the defenses in the Arras front by Oberst Fritz von Lossberg. The book provides detailed accounts of the bitter battles that took place, including the fierce clashes around Monchy Le Preun, the Roeux Chemical works, and Bullecourt, as well as the pivotal capture of Vimy Ridge.

Through meticulous research and analysis, Sheldon sheds light on the strategies, tactics, and bravery of the defenders on the French side, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges they faced during this pivotal period of the war. This book is a valuable addition to the literature on World War I, offering a fresh perspective on one of the most significant battles of the conflict.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399077187