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Allied victims of a poison gas, temporarily blinded, at a French hospital, World War I, c1915-c1918
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Allied victims of a poison gas, temporarily blinded, at a French hospital, World War I, c1915-c1918
Allied victims of a poison gas, temporarily blinded, at a French hospital, World War I, c1915-c1918. On 22 April 1915, during the Second Battle of Ypres, the Germans released 168 tons of chlorine gas over a four mile front, in the first gas attack of the war. Initially French and Algerian troops (Zouaves) of the 45th and 78th Divisions were attacked with the gas, inflicting heavy casualties and causing widespread panic, with the survivors abandoning their positions. Although the Allies initially condemned the attack as barbaric, by the end of the war both sides had made extensive use of poison gas
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Media ID 15138958
© Historica Graphica Collection / Heritage-Images
Bandage Bandages Blind Blinded Blindfold Blindfolded Casualty Chemical Warfare Chemical Weapon Gas Attack Hospital Infantry Poison Gas Trench Warfare Victim Western Front Wound Wounded Battlefield Historica Graphica Collection Military Personnel
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This powerful print captures the devastating consequences of chemical warfare during World War I. Taken at a French hospital, it depicts Allied soldiers who have been temporarily blinded by poison gas. The image serves as a haunting reminder of the horrors endured by those on the front lines. The photograph specifically documents an incident that occurred on 22 April 1915, known as the Second Battle of Ypres. It was during this battle that the Germans unleashed 168 tons of chlorine gas over a four-mile stretch, marking the first gas attack in history. Initially targeting French and Algerian troops, this heinous act caused heavy casualties and widespread panic among its victims. At first condemned as barbaric, both sides eventually resorted to using poison gas throughout the war. This tragic reality underscores how conflict can lead to unimaginable suffering and desperation. In this black-and-white image, we see injured soldiers wearing bandages over their eyes or blindfolded entirely. Their expressions reveal not only physical pain but also emotional anguish brought upon them by this merciless weapon. As we reflect upon this historical moment captured in monochrome tones, let us remember these brave individuals who sacrificed their well-being for our freedom. May their sacrifice serve as a constant reminder to strive for peace and prevent such atrocities from ever happening again.
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