The Prelude to the Battle
The Battle of Verdun, fought during World War I, was one of the deadliest battles in history.
It was fought between the German and French armies from February to December 1916.
The battle was characterized by its long duration, massive casualties, and the use of new weapons such as flamethrowers and poison gas.
The Germans launched a massive offensive in February 1916, seeking to break through the French lines and reach the strategic city of Verdun.
The French army, under the command of General Philippe Pétain, dug in and prepared to defend the city.
French soldiers during the Battle of Verdun
The Birth of a Battlecry
As the German army advanced towards the French lines, the French soldiers, including the famous Moroccan soldiers, took up their positions and prepared to defend their country.
One of the Moroccan soldiers, a man named Zouhair Bouzid, shouted out "On ne passe pas!" which means "They shall not pass!" in English.
This phrase quickly became a rallying cry for the French soldiers, who were determined to hold the line and stop the German advance.
A lone French soldier charging
The Symbol of French Resilience
The Battle of Verdun was a grueling and brutal battle that lasted for months.
Both sides suffered heavy casualties, and the landscape of the battlefield was scarred by the constant shelling and fighting.
The phrase "On ne passe pas" became a symbol of French resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
It represented the soldiers' commitment to defending their country, no matter the cost.
The aftermath of the Battle of Verdun
The Aftermath
After months of fighting, the Battle of Verdun finally came to an end in December 1916.
The French had successfully held the line, but the cost was staggering. More than 300,000 French soldiers and 280,000 German soldiers were killed, wounded, or went missing during the battle.
The phrase "On ne passe pas" had become a legend, and it was used to inspire French soldiers throughout the war.
The Legacy
The Battle of Verdun was a turning point in the war, and the phrase "On ne passe pas" remains a symbol of French resistance and resilience.
It has been used in various contexts throughout history, including during World War II and the French resistance against Nazi occupation.
Today, it continues to be a symbol of French identity and pride.
A Poster Print to Commemorate
To commemorate this historic battlecry, we offer an A They Shall Not Pass (On Ne Passe Pas) By Maurice Neumont Poster Print.
This high-quality print depicts a French soldier standing in front of the city of Verdun, with the phrase "On ne passe pas" written in bold letters.
It is a powerful and moving tribute to the soldiers who fought and died in the Battle of Verdun, and a reminder of the enduring spirit of the French people.
