Key Facts
- Dates
- 13–18 November 1916
- German prisoners taken
- Over 7,000
- German divisions relieved
- 4 (due to casualties)
- Preliminary bombardment
- 7 days, twice as heavy as 1 July 1916
- British army engaged
- Fifth Army (formerly Reserve Army)
Strategic Narrative Overview
The British Fifth Army, under Lieutenant-General Hubert Gough, launched its attack on 13 November 1916 after a seven-day preliminary bombardment twice the intensity of that preceding 1 July. The assault achieved surprise, capturing Beaumont Hamel, St Pierre Divion, and Beaucourt. The success threatened the German hold on Serre to the north and forced the relief of four German divisions that had suffered severe losses during the fighting.
01 / The Origins
Following the costly opening of the Battle of the Somme on 1 July 1916, the British sought to redeem early failures and satisfy political demands in London. The capture of Beaumont Hamel and Serre, which had eluded attackers on 1 July, remained key objectives. Allied strategy under the Chantilly agreement also required Britain to demonstrate continued commitment to offensive operations against Germany on the Western Front.
03 / The Outcome
The battle concluded on 18 November 1916 as worsening weather and supply difficulties halted further operations. Over 7,000 German prisoners were captured, and the British secured tactically advantageous ground. The engagement closed the main 1916 Somme campaign, with large-scale operations suspended until the following year. Edmund Blunden later praised it as a feat of arms in which the enemy was surprised and beaten.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Hubert Gough.
Side B
1 belligerent
Fritz von Below.
Kinetic Engagement Axis
Scroll horizontally to view full axis. Events plotted relatively.