During World War I, the German strategy and Belgian defense played pivotal roles in shaping the conflict’s early stages. Germany sought to implement the Schlieffen Plan, aimed at quickly defeating France through Belgium before turning to Russia. This plan, emphasizing rapid movement, underestimated Belgian resistance and the international ramifications of invading a neutral country.
Belgium, despite its smaller size and limited military resources, mounted a fierce defense against the advancing German forces. The Belgian army, bolstered by fortified positions like those at Liège, delayed the German advance, allowing France and Britain time to mobilize in response. The destruction wrought upon Belgian towns as a result of the invasion galvanized international support for the Allied cause and highlighted the brutality of warfare.
Ultimately, the combination of German strategy and Belgian resilience set the stage for a protracted and bloody conflict, reshaping alliances and military tactics in the years to come.
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