Birth in Gunfire: Vimy and the Birth of Canada

There had already been numerous failed attempts to take the ridge, but the course of war had made it increasingly important for the allies to hold the ridge. Vimy was placed along an escarpment to the north of the Arras flank. If not taken, the German army at Vimy could then attack the allied army from the rear. Therefore, in order for the allied army to advance northwest, Vimy Ridge had to be taken. The battle marked the first time all Canadian corps was together, and was a massive success; due to new tactical strategies, technological innovation, tedious planning, and extensive training all objectives were taken within three days with general small amounts of casualties, and the remaining German army retreated. In the grand scale of the First World War, Vimy is fairly insignificant. In Britain, it is considered nothing more then a part of the Battle in Arras. In the U.S, it is forgotten completely. But the battle of Vimy Ridge has become something more in Canada.