So much of World War 1 was dominated by this method of fight because
of the trench warfare tactics employed by both sides.
Trench warfare was a defensive strategy that involved digging elaborate systems of trenches equipped with barbed wire, machine gun posts, and other fortifications. The trenches were used to protect soldiers from enemy fire and provided a base for launching attacks. This method of fighting became dominant due to several reasons:
1. Stalemate: The use of trenches created a stalemate on the Western Front, with neither side able to gain significant ground. The defensive capabilities of the trenches made it extremely difficult for the attacking forces to breach enemy lines.
2. New technologies: The advent of new technologies like machine guns, artillery, and gas warfare made it increasingly dangerous for troops to engage in open field battles. The trenches provided protection against these new weapons and reduced casualties.
3. Mobility limitations: The existing tactics and weapons were unable to effectively counter the defensive capabilities of the trenches. This limited the mobility of both sides and forced them to rely on entrenched positions for protection.
4. Terrain advantages: The trench systems were often located in strategic locations, such as high ground or near important supply routes, which provided additional advantages in defensive positions.
5. Trench network: Over time, the trench systems expanded and interconnected, creating an extensive network that made it even more challenging for attacking forces to break through. These networks often stretched for miles, making it difficult for armies to flank or bypass them.
Overall, the dominance of trench warfare in World War 1 can be attributed to its effectiveness in providing defensive protection against new technologies, creating a stalemate on the Western Front, and exploiting terrain advantages. However, it also led to prolonged and devastating battles, resulting in high casualties and a challenging war of attrition.