The German Army on the Western Front, 1917–1918

David Bilton

Mar 2007 · Pen and Sword

About this ebook

This highly illustrated book covers the German retreat from the Somme, through the defensive battles of 1917, the Kaiserschlacht (Kaiser's Battle) of early 1918, to the final Allied offensive from August to the end of the War. The post-Armistice events are also covered as the implications of defeat sunk in on an exhausted nation and its shattered army. Each phase is analysed from the German point of view giving an original angle. The photographs vividly demonstrate life and events both at the front line in the trenches as well as in the rear echelons. This book will appeal to a wide spectrum of readers. Its highly illustrated nature is ideal for the general reader while its rare photographs and unusual angle will make it collectable by the more specialist reader.

Ratings and reviews

I'm not surprised to see that this was written by a professor. He seems to be in firm command of a great many facts, but there is zero emotion on the page. This book is dry as dust. It is written like a textbook students are forced to ingest and regurgitate for scores. I'm feeling none of the fear and pain of these battles. Matter of factly, he explains that a half million men died during these dates, then x, y, and z divisions moved up. I hate to say, but the price has gone down to $1.99, and I don't know if I can bring myself to purchase it. Sorry.

About the author

David Bilton is a retired teacher who spends his time looking after his family, working as a University lecturer and researching the Great War. He is the prolific author of numerous books about the British Army, the Home Front and the German Army. His first book, The Hull Pals, became the BBC 2 series The Trench. Since he started writing he has contributed to many television and radio programmes. His interest in the Great War was ignited by his grandfather's refusal to talk about his experiences in Gallipoli and on the Western Front.