The Somme

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Unique panoramas reveal new truths about the Battle of the Somme, in association with The Imperial War Museum. Beginning on 1 July 1916, the battle marked the bloodiest day in British military history and became a symbol of suffering for many nations. The landscape of Picardy remains largely unchanged, making the Imperial War Museum's panorama collection the most complete 'then and now' impression of the battleground. This volume features over 50 extraordinary panoramas that provide starkly different perspectives than those typically imagined, including views from the trench parapet. New research sheds light on the controversial first day, exploring the perplexing choice of ordnance against German dugouts and the use of a network of 'Russian Saps' created before the battle. These tunnels brought British forces within 10 metres of German trenches, but over-secrecy and poor communication often left them unexploited. In areas where they were used, however, the results were dramatic. The book also includes unpublished personal testimonies and examines lesser-known aspects of the battle, such as the Royal Engineers' Push Pipes, Bored Mines, and Livens Flame Projectors. Accompanied by photographs, original maps, and specially commissioned drawings, this work offers a fresh perspective on the Somme.