Summary: Fourth Phase Offensive
The Fourth Phase Offensive, also known as the Hundred Days Offensive, was a series of Allied offensives launched during World War I in 1918. These offensives marked a turning point in the war, leading to the eventual defeat of the Central Powers. The Fourth Phase Offensive consisted of a series of coordinated attacks by the Allied forces on the Western Front, which ultimately led to the collapse of the German Army and the signing of the Armistice in November 1918.
The Situation Prior to the Fourth Phase Offensive
By 1918, the war had been raging for four long years, and both sides were exhausted. The Central Powers, led by Germany, had launched a series of offensives in the spring of that year, hoping to secure a victory before the arrival of fresh American troops. However, these offensives had failed to achieve their objectives and had resulted in heavy casualties for both sides.
The Allied Plan
The Allied forces, under the command of General Ferdinand Foch, devised a plan to launch a series of coordinated offensives along the Western Front. The goal was to break through the German lines and push them back towards their own borders. The plan involved using overwhelming force and employing new tactics, such as the use of tanks and aircraft, to gain an advantage over the enemy.
The Fourth Phase Offensive Begins
The Fourth Phase Offensive began on August 8, 1918, with the Battle of Amiens. This battle saw the Allied forces launch a surprise attack on the German lines, using tanks, aircraft, and a combination of infantry and artillery. The attack was a resounding success, with the Allies advancing several miles and capturing thousands of German prisoners.
The Advance Continues
Following the success at Amiens, the Allied forces continued their advance along the Western Front. The British, French, and American troops pushed the Germans back in a series of battles, including the Battle of the Somme, the Battle of the Hindenburg Line, and the Battle of Cambrai. The Allies made significant gains, capturing key strategic positions and inflicting heavy casualties on the German Army.
The Collapse of the German Army
As the Fourth Phase Offensive continued, the German Army began to crumble under the relentless pressure from the Allies. The German soldiers were demoralized and exhausted, and their supply lines were stretched thin. The Allies took advantage of this weakness and launched a series of attacks that pushed the Germans back further and further.
The Armistice
By November 1918, the German Army was in full retreat, and it became clear that they could no longer continue the fight. On November 11, 1918, an armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany, effectively ending the war. The Fourth Phase Offensive had been a decisive turning point in the conflict, leading to the eventual defeat of the Central Powers.
Conclusion
The Fourth Phase Offensive, also known as the Hundred Days Offensive, was a series of coordinated offensives launched by the Allied forces in 1918. These offensives marked a turning point in World War I and ultimately led to the defeat of the Central Powers. The Allied forces used overwhelming force and new tactics to break through the German lines and push them back towards their own borders. The Fourth Phase Offensive resulted in significant gains for the Allies and the collapse of the German Army, leading to the signing of the Armistice in November 1918.
