Cause and Consequence of the Battle of the Somme: Haig's Role

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
6 questions
~12 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores the causes leading to the Battle of the Somme and its consequences, with a focus on the role of General Haig. It encourages students to analyze sources, compare perspectives, and explain key historical developments.

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Cause and Consequence of the Battle of the Somme: Haig's Role

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to the Battle of the Somme

The Battle of the Somme took place in 1916 during the First World War. It was one of the bloodiest battles in history, with over one million men wounded or killed. The battle was intended to relieve pressure on the French at Verdun and to break through German defenses. General Douglas Haig was the commander of the British forces and played a key role in planning and leading the attack.

1.
Outline the main causes that led to the Battle of the Somme. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Explain how General Haig's leadership influenced the planning and execution of the battle. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
B

Sources and Perspectives

Source A: Haig's Memoir (1919)

'The battle was a necessary and inevitable step in breaking the German lines. Our soldiers fought with courage and determination despite heavy losses.'

Historian View: John Keegan (1998)

'Haig’s strategies were flawed, and his reliance on attrition led to unnecessary slaughter without decisive gains.'**

1.
Compare the perspective of Source A with that of the historian. How do they view Haig's role in the battle? (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyse the consequences of the Battle of the Somme for British soldiers and military strategy. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
C

Evaluation of Haig's Leadership

Source B: Eyewitness account by Private Thomas Jones (1916)

'We went over the top knowing many of us would never return. Haig's strategies seemed to ignore the cost to ordinary soldiers.'

Historian View: Gary Sheffield (2000)

'Haig’s leadership was marked by stubbornness and a failure to adapt to new warfare, which contributed to unnecessary suffering.'**

1.
Compare the eyewitness account with the historian’s view. What do they both suggest about Haig’s leadership? (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Outline the long-term consequences of the Battle of the Somme for British military leadership and public opinion. (6 marks)
[6 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet