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Quote: Hi,
What are your thoughts on the Battle of Cambrai?
Could it have been a major breakthrough?
Thanks
Jason
Welcome, Jason !
November 20th 1917 ?
Cambrai 1917 was a major breakthrough.
A breakthrough was one thing : exploitation another.
Failure to exploit is a recurring theme in military history.
The significant thing about the British success at Cambrai is the ability of the Germans to counter attack with such skill and effect. A brilliant initial success by one side balanced by an equally triumphant method by the other.
The use of tanks by the British is the thing people usually associate with this battle. What made another very important impact was the success of their “ predicted” artillery barrage : often overlooked , it seems.
As George is right to imply, the brilliant fighting by the Canadians there nearly one year later is also overlooked.
Regards, Phil
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"Egad, sir, I do not know whether you will die on the gallows or of the pox!"
"That will depend, my Lord, on whether I embrace your principles or your mistress."
Earl of Sandwich and John Wilkes
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