How Important Was Douglas Haig’s Role in the Successes and Failures of the British Army on the Western Front From 1916-1918?
by In December of 1915, Douglas Haig was appointed leader of the British army on the western front. Following his orders, thousands of men died and important battles were lost. On the other hand however, his instruction led to the eventual downfall of an important German strongpoint which played a crucial role in Britain’s triumph in the First World War. This considered, how vital was Haig in the equally tragic and triumphant outcomes of the battles he planned?
His confidence piqued and his men in high spirits over their out-of-the-blue victory Haig decided it was time to attack an area known as the Hindenburg Line. The strongest point on the German front, it was supposedly impossible to break through, even though it took only ten days for Haig’s troops to take it down. By October 15, Haig had beaten the old German front line, an impeccable feat. Shortly after this immense victory, the war came to an end, the final victory going to Britain and her allies.
It is true that Haig was naïve, and overconfident at the beginning of the war, and these flaws resulted in the loss of countless lives. However, this could be blamed on his inexperience and the outdated methods of warfare that he had been tutored in. His eventual victory against the Hindenburg line, demonstrates his ability to learn and adjust to these alien methods of fighting, along with his knack for keeping his men thinking positively. His initial tactics left a foul taste in the mouth of many Brits, but it is impossible to argue that once he had overcome his potent weaknesses, his results were outstanding.
Liked it
