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The Battlefield of Verdun

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May 25th 2015
Today I visited the WWI battlefield of Verdun. The day was overcast and rainy and that seemed appropriate. The Battle of Verdun lasted for 300 days and nights throughout most of 1916 (from February until December). Hundreds of thousands died and, in the end, the front line was very nearly where it had been at the beginning. Unlike my visit to the Somme battlefield, there is a large area set aside ... read more

Europe » France

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Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader am... ... read more