Bapaume, Battle of

Battle between German and British forces during World War I in Nord département, France; the second phase of the successful British offensive of 21 August–2 September 1918. The British pushed the Germans back 8 km/5 mi, capturing 34,250 prisoners and 270 guns as well as vital strategic positions, including the German strongpoint at Mont St Quentin. The battle was very similar to the Battle of the Somme 1916, starting from more or less the same positions and following the same general plan.

Disposition of forces The British 3rd and 4th armies, a total of 23 divisions, under generals Julian Byng and Henry Rawlinson respectively, were opposed by 35 under-strength German divisions under generals Oskar von Hutier and Georg von der Marwitz, directed by Ludendorff. Supported by tanks and artillery, the British attack began 21 August 1918, broke through the German lines, and crossed the River Ancre 22 August. The Germans abandoned Albert after a flank attack, and on 23 August a massed Allied attack on a front 53 km/33 mi long drove the German line back until the Allied forces held the Arras–Bapaume road, flanking the Thiepval Ridge position.

Allied advance At 1 a.m. on 24 August the British mounted a concentric attack on the Thiepval position, taking it with immense German losses in prisoners and equipment. The advance continued, British troops taking Bapaume and Combles and French troops taking Noyon and Nesle. The 2nd Australian Division attacked the principal German strongpoint at Mont St Quentin 30 August, finally taking it 1 September and allowing other Australian units to take Peronne. This phase of the operation closed 2 September.