Meuse-Argonne

Definition

The Meuse-Argonne is a significant military campaign that occurred from September 26 to November 11, 1918, during the final stages of World War I. It was part of the larger Allied offensive known as the Hundred Days Offensive, aiming to push back German forces on the Western Front and ultimately contribute to the armistice that ended the war. The campaign involved American forces, primarily from the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF), in a series of battles that showcased their combat capabilities and determination.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Meuse-Argonne Offensive was one of the largest battles involving American troops during World War I, with over a million soldiers engaged on the American side.
2. The campaign aimed to breach the heavily fortified Hindenburg Line, which was crucial for the Germans' defensive strategy.
3. During this offensive, American forces faced challenging terrain, including dense forests and steep hills, which made progress difficult.
4. The offensive resulted in significant casualties, with approximately 26,000 American soldiers killed and over 95,000 wounded.
5. The success of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive helped lead to the signing of the armistice on November 11, 1918, marking the end of World War I.

Review Questions

• What strategies were employed by American forces during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive to overcome German defenses?
  • American forces employed a combination of artillery bombardments and infantry assaults to break through German defenses during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. The strategy involved coordinated attacks that included careful planning and reconnaissance to identify weak points in the German lines. Additionally, American troops utilized tactics such as 'creeping barrages' where artillery fire would move ahead of advancing infantry, allowing them to close in on enemy positions while minimizing exposure to enemy fire.
• Discuss the impact of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive on the overall outcome of World War I and its significance in military history.
  • The Meuse-Argonne Offensive significantly impacted the overall outcome of World War I by contributing to the weakening of German forces and hastening their decision to seek an armistice. It showcased the effectiveness and determination of American troops on an international stage and marked a turning point in how modern warfare would be conducted. The campaign's success demonstrated that fresh and well-equipped armies could effectively alter the dynamics of prolonged trench warfare, influencing military strategies for future conflicts.
• Evaluate how the experiences and outcomes of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive shaped post-war American military policy and public perception.
  • The experiences and outcomes of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive shaped post-war American military policy by emphasizing the importance of maintaining a standing army and preparing for future conflicts. The high casualty rates and intense combat fostered a sense of realism about war among American leaders and citizens. As veterans returned home, their stories contributed to a complex public perception of war; while some celebrated military achievements, others questioned the sacrifices made. This duality influenced American foreign policy in subsequent years, leading to debates on interventionism versus isolationism in international affairs.

Related terms

American Expeditionary Forces (AEF): The United States armed forces sent to Europe during World War I, commanded by General John J. Pershing, and played a crucial role in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.

Hundred Days Offensive: A series of rapid Allied attacks along the Western Front from August 8 to November 11, 1918, which aimed to defeat Germany before winter set in.

Armistice: An agreement made by opposing sides in a war to stop fighting; in the context of World War I, it refers to the ceasefire that took effect on November 11, 1918.