World War One Timeline 1917 – Jan to May – Western Front

by Bronwyn
The Battles for Bullecourt 4093072 AWM
1917
Mar 01
Withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line
AWM E00361 17 March 1917

The German Army made a tactical withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line, a heavily fortified series of defences they had been preparing for some months. This had the advantage of shortening their defensive line as well as creating a much stronger position.

Apr 06
Sub Label
United States declares war on Germany
AWM ARTV00001 1917

It would take at least 12 months before US troops were present on the Western Front in enough numbers to have any effect on the outcome of the war.

Apr 11
First Battle of Bullecourt
AWM E00603 Bullecourt 1917

Troops of the 4th Division assaulted the Hindenburg Line at Bullecourt in what was a poorly planned and executed attack. The battle cost the 4th Division over 3000 casualties, of which 1170 were taken prisoner—the largest capture of Australian troops on the Western Front.

May 3
Sub Label
Second Battle of Bullecourt
AWM E00454 May 1917 Bullecourt

The Hindenburg Line was again attacked at Bullecourt on 3 May, this time by two brigades of the 2nd Division, which ultimately captured and held enemy positions against a series of German counter-attacks. Determined German responses followed over the next fortnight. On 7 May, the British succeeded in pushing into Bullecourt village and linking up with the Australians. Although it was a solid victory, the battle cost the AIF 7482 casualties.

https://anzac100.initiatives.qld.gov.au/remember/key-moments/index.aspx

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