SOMME, BATTLES OF

The general name given to two great struggles which took place in France during the World War. The first battle of the Somme began on January 1, 1916, and ended on November 18, 1916. This is described as the greatest battle in which British troops ever were engaged, and it was declared by Ludendorf to have been the grave of German hopes. Half the Ger-| man army suffered defeat, and the operations were followed by a general retreat to the Siegfried, or Hindenburg line. Before this movement could be undertaken, however, the British renewed the attack, and compelled the Germans to continue their retreat. See Worip War. The second battle of the Somme comprised great operations following the last great German offensive which began on March 21, 1918, and lasted until April 23, 1918. The name, the third battle of the Somme has been given to the operations included in the last hundred days in the same area, which was followed by the end of the war. The third battle of the Somme proper lasted from July 4, 1918, to September 19, 1918, which was marked by strong British and French offensive, which compelled the Germans to retreat. It was followed by the Battles of Cambrai, Selle and St. Quentin; for which see these titles; also Worup War. town, Brandenburg, Pru ia;.. manufactures cloth. Pop. 11,880.