The Year of the Somme: 1916

Abstract

1916 saw the end of amateurishness and the volunteer spirit. Conscription was introduced at the beginning of the year, for the first time in the nation’s history; it was generally accepted as fair, to the Government’s relief. Agreement was reached with France for the Big Push in the summer and meticulous planning got under way. The Gallipoli campaign was closed when the last troops withdrew in January, a moment described by John Masefield.