Soldiers blinded by tear gas near Bethune, 10th April 1918

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Soldiers blinded by tear gas near Bethune, 10th April 1918

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 32381326

© The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive / Mary Evans

10th Bethune Blinded Tear

EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting vintage image captures a poignant moment in the history of World War I, as soldiers from both sides are blinded by the intense effects of tear gas during the Second Battle of Bethune on the Western Front on April 10, 1918. The photograph, taken from The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive Collection at Mary Evans Prints Online, transports us back in time to an era of brutal conflict and human endurance. The soldiers, their faces obscured by masks and their eyes streaming with tears, are a testament to the devastating impact of chemical warfare in the Great War. Tear gas, also known as lachrymatory agents, was first used in warfare during this period, and its effects were often debilitating, causing intense pain, blindness, and respiratory distress. The photograph, taken with a lantern slide, captures the raw emotion and chaos of the battlefield, as soldiers struggle to maintain their composure amidst the chaos of war. The image is reminiscent of the Victorian and Edwardian eras, with the soldiers' uniforms and equipment reflecting the military tactics and technology of the time. Despite the horrors of the battlefield, this photograph also serves as a reminder of the resilience and bravery of the soldiers who fought in the war. The image invites us to reflect on the sacrifices made by these men and the lessons learned from the devastating conflict that shaped the course of history. This powerful image is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of peace, making it a valuable addition to any collection of historical photographs or World War I memorabilia.

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