The Nivelle Offensive was a 1917 French attack on the Western Front in the First World War. Promised as the assault that would end the war within 48 hours, with casualties expected of around 10,000 men, it failed on both counts. It was a three-stage plan:
- A preliminary attack by the British and Dominion First, Third and Fifth Armies was launched at Arras. This was intended to capture high ground and draw off German troops from in front of the French.
- The French offensive targeted the Chemin des Dames ridge. (Second Battle of the Aisne - also known as the "Third Battle of Champagne").
- A planned linkup of the British and Dominion and French armies, having broken through the German lines.
This did not happen. While the British made some advances, and the high ground was taken by the Canadians, they did not achieve a breakthrough.
The high levels of casualties rapidly caused unrest throughout the French Army, and led to a change of leadership of the French Army.
Read more about Nivelle Offensive: Background, Battle, Aftermath
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