Battle of Mons

#shorts

On August 23, 1914, the Battle of Mons marked the first clash of British and German forces on European soil since 1815's Battle of Waterloo. The British Expeditionary Force (BEF), led by Sir John French, faced the German 1st Army near the Mons Canal in Belgium. This battle was part of the initial month of World War I, with prior engagements at Lorraine, Ardennes, and Charleroi involving French forces under General Joseph Joffre.

Despite the BEF's courage in withstanding German artillery and infantry assaults, a retreat was compelled due to the French 5th Army's withdrawal at Charleroi. The battle lasted nine hours, involving around 35,000 British soldiers and resulting in 1,600 casualties.

Although the first day ended in retreat, the Battle of Mons became legendary in British history. The "Angel of Mons" myth emerged, depicting a supernatural entity aiding British troops. This battle, although a setback, later acquired a heroic aura. The Germans gained confidence from their victories in the Battles of the Frontiers, propelling their advance through Belgium and northern France. This campaign allowed them to control critical resources and infrastructure, while the Allies worked to strengthen their defenses.

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[rhysnichols]

The British and German didn’t clash in 1815 they were allies, brits and Germans pretty much never clashed before 1914, historically Britain and Prussia were allies going back before 18th century