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What shape were German Trenches in WW1


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We have all seen in photos that British trenches in WW1 were set out where possible in a zigzag pattern. But what shape did the Germans use? The attached photo shows trenches on the right of the photo having more of a square edged pattern. Any help greatly appreciated.WW1 Trenches.jpg

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The basic layout was the same on both sides. Unplanned variables such as mines and artillery did however cause variation. Generally German, trenches tended to be more robust on the grounds 'We are here and intend to stay. Allied forces always considered trenches to be tempoary. This is a god site for pictures of the time. http://www.greatwar.nl/

Edited by Tony B
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  • 2 weeks later...

Furthermore after the race to the Channel in 1914, the Germans stopped and help high ground. Being there to stay, they built extensive (sometimes iirc several storey complexes) trench systems.

 

The Allies on the other hand, down in the low ground, had a water table to deal with and the trenches were nothing like as sophisticated.

 

Don't ask me where I read / saw that, but it was only in the last couple of years.

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