Mind’s On – 3-2-1 Anticipation In your notes write down: 3 things you think it essential for victory in any battle 2 things that will ensure defeat 1 thing you think of when you hear the word ‘Vimy’

Vimy Ridge “Birth of a Nation”

Vimy Ridge When and Where Vimy Ridge, France – April 9, 1917

What are the Advantages of Holding Vimy Ridge? Occupation of Vimy Ridge gave either side in WWI an especially good view of the locality – Hill 145 at Vimy Ridge was the highest point in the whole area. The strategic value of Vimy Ridge made it a prize possession and from the Allies point of view the German occupation of Vimy Ridge was a major threat to any advance in the Somme region in 1917. Therefore the decision was taken to take Vimy Ridge and the task was given to the Canadians.

The Goal/Main Objective Vimy Ridge was a key to the German defense system Canadians were sent to capture Vimy Ridge in Feb. 1917. Why Canadians? Why not the British and the French? Generals Currie and Byng’s mission

Preparations for the battle were thorough and extremely detailed. Troops built a full scale model of the battle grounds Practice – scale Planes Light railway lines Underground tunnels

Tunnels (since you’ve been so patient!) The digging of tunnels had two purposes: protection huge underground mines

Soldiers took advantage of an abandoned chalk quarry (and even left their mark in the walls!)

What is the battle known for?...cont. Troops followed a barrage of artillery (Creeping Barrage [or Bite and Hold]) and caught the Germans off guard. They advanced 100 yard every three minutes = “Vimy Glide”

You are now going to draw a diagram in your notes!!!

General Arthur Currie General Arthur Currie insists that Canada fight this battle on their own –with Canadians and led by Canadians. Currie studied failures and successes of previous battles in this war Soldiers were trained carefully and practiced new battle tactics

Number of Canadian Casualties 10,500 casualties, including 3,598 dead.

Vimy Success: It was said that at Vimy Ridge Canada truly ‘became a _______________ Canada lost over 3500 men (out of over 10,000) but it has been called the “most perfectly organized and successful battle of the whole war” As a result Canada was no longer seen as a colony and later signed the Treaty of Versailles as their own nation