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British soldiers being gassed at Ypres. WWI
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British soldiers being gassed at Ypres. WWI
How the gas devil comes - Thick green mist came rolling towards the parapet On the 22nd April 1915 at Ypres, the Germans used poisonous chlorine gas for the first time. Despite warnings from captured Germans, the British and French were totally unprepared, with no protection, and began to suffer the effects within minutes. Most had to retreat in disarray, many stayed at their posts - hundreds died. The British press was outraged a this new, insidious raising of the game by the Germans. Sir John French reported of the use: The quantity used produced long an deliberate preparation for the employment of devices contrary to the terms of the Hague Convention, to which the enemy subscribed. Date: 1915
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Media ID 32222002
© Illustrated London News/Mary Evans
Armies Attack Attacks Chemical Convention Devil Gassed Hague Matania Mist Parapet Protection Roll Rolling Trench Trenches Unprotected Warfare Ypres Chlorine Unprepared
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The haunting image captured in this print depicts the harrowing moment when British soldiers were first exposed to poisonous chlorine gas at Ypres during World War I. The thick green mist rolling towards the parapet symbolizes the insidious nature of chemical warfare, as hundreds of unprepared troops suffered its deadly effects within minutes.
On April 22nd, 1915, the Germans unleashed this new form of attack, catching the British and French forces off guard and causing chaos on the battlefield. Despite warnings from captured enemies, many soldiers had no protection against the gas and were forced to retreat or face certain death.
Sir John French's report condemned the use of chlorine gas as a violation of international agreements like the Hague Convention. The sheer quantity employed by the Germans showed a deliberate disregard for human life and marked a sinister escalation in tactics during WWI.
This powerful image serves as a stark reminder of the horrors faced by those who fought in the Great War. It captures not only a moment in history but also reflects on the bravery and sacrifice of those who endured unimaginable hardships on behalf of their countries.
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