February 25, 1916: capture of Fort Douaumont by the Germans.
- Feb 25
Following this emblematic French loss, the command of the fortified region of Verdun was entrusted to General Pétain.
April 9, 1916: the Germans take the Mort-homme observation point
- Apr 9
But their gain is insufficient in relation to the resources committed. The next day, General Pétain communicated a historic watchword: "Courage, we will have them!"
May 1, 1916: General Nivelle is appointed in place of Pétain
- May 1
By General Joffre, who finds him more offensive.
May 22, 23 and 24, 1916: a major French offensive to reconquer Fort Douaumont
- May 22
Led by General Mangin under the orders of General Nivelle, ends up failing. Why? Insufficient artillery preparation.
June 7, 1916: surrender of Fort Vaux.
- Jun 7
Commander Raynal and his men, who were stationed there, surrendered driven by thirst. The Germans take over the place.
June 23, 1916
- Jun 23
after a non-stop bombardment of poison gas shells, 60,000 German soldiers attacked along a 6 km front. Fleury is taken. However, the German attempts to take Verdun continue to fail and their results to be disappointing in comparison with the means committed.
July 12, 1916: in the Souville sector, the German army's final assault is launched.
- Jul 12
It's a fail. This area marks from the maximum point of enemy advance during the Battle of Verdun. Yet another setback for the troops of the Kronprinz (William of Prussia) who, from then on, were ordered to be content with purely defensive action.
October 24, 1916: the recapture of Fort Douaumont by French forces
- Oct 24
Who this time planned the "artillery fire" phase at length, exhausted the Germans and recaptured the fort almost without a fight - signaling the end of the Battle of Verdun.