World War I
Belgium was invaded in August 1914 by the German army after refusing its request of unhindered passage to northern France.
The invasion began on August 4, 1914. Eager to reach Paris as soon as possible, the German army concentrated all its efforts towards the south, ignoring Antwerp.
Continued Belgian resistance from the north forced German command to attack Antwerp. On September 9, General Beseler was ordered to attack Antwerp. Siege artillery was sent north, having precipitated the fall of Namur and Maubeuge.
Fort Breendonk was first attacked on October 1, 1914 by howitzers located 5 to 6 km out of range of the fort's own guns. The Germans breached Belgian lines in Lier. The German army could attack Antwerp whil avoiding Fort Breendonk. On October 9, Fort Breendonk surrendered after the fall of Antwerp.
Read more about this topic: Fort Breendonk
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“It is well that war is so terrible: we would grow too fond of it!”
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