A Belgian village in Flanders. The Battle of Passchendaele, also known as the Third Battle of Ypres, was an Allied offensive against the German lines in July to November 1917. Although it had some initial success, it is mostly remembered for the cost to human life and for the rain and mud, which became the main enemy.
Passchendaele
Fact of the Day
The name 'Plantagenet' probably comes from the sprig of broom (planta genista) Henry II's father Geoffrey used to keep in his helmet.
Quote of the Day
"And if I am to estimate the penalty justly, I say that maintenance in the Prytaneum is the just return.
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~ Plato reporting Socrates' suggestion for punishment
On This Day
1586 American colonists arrived in Plymouth with large quantities of tobacco. Smoking caught on quickly, though it was also used in tea.
1694 The Bank of England was founded by an act of parliament as a way to finance government debt by private subscription.
1943 The concentrated Allied bombing of Hamburg led to a three hour firestorm that killed approx 30,000 civilians.