World War One map of the Western Front - Neuve Chapelle, France - 1915

Original map first published c.1920. Republished July 2016.

World war one map depicting the battle fields of Western Front at Neuve Chapelle in France and the intense fighting between Germany, Britain and France, 1915. The map also illustrates the surrounding towns and villages, including Givenchy in the south and Aubers Ridge to the east.

When this map was published:

Published at the time of this map, c.1920:

In March and May, 1915, the British made several attacks on the German line from Aubers to Festubert. These battles were linked battles with a definite objective. The Battle of Neuve Chappelle included an attempt to storm the terrible Aubers Ridge, which was also an objective in the later Battle of Festubert.. At the end of February, 1915, Sir John French decided upon a vigorous offensive movement in order to make the most of the marked success of the Russians in repulsing the Hindenburg's violent onslaughts, and the apparent weakening of the enemy on the British front in France. He saw the necessity of assisting the Russians to the utmost by pinning down hostile troops in the western theatre. Most weighty reason of all was the need of fostering the offensive spirit in the British troops after their trying experiences throughout a severe winter in the trenches