<http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/>



The first use of gas during World War One was not a deliberate act destined to kill hundreds to soldiers on the front lines.  It wasn't even used for the first time in war by the Germans.

The first use of gas during the Great War was by the French in August of 1914.  The Germans were rapidly advancing through Belgium, and were approaching the French border at incredible speed.  The French lobbed tear gas grenades at the French in an attempt to render their troops senseless, to the point where they could not fight, but would not suffer any permanent injury.

The attack was a success, at least for a while, while the Germans temporarily halted their advance, until the effects of the gas wore off, and fresh soldier arrived to continue the advance.  Regardless of the fact that the gas used was harmless, the concept of gas warfare had been introduced.



Continue on to Page Two