The Somme

“The Somme”—examines the role of the Newfoundland Regiment and the Canadian Expeditionary Force in the monumental First World War battle that took place a century ago on both sides of the Somme River in France, from July 1 to Nov. 18, 1916. The assault at Beaumont-Hamel on July 1 was the Newfoundlanders’ first major engagement, and they were all but wiped out in only 30 minutes. The Battle of the Somme continued for more than four months, and more than 1.3 million soldiers on both sides were killed or wounded.

This special issue recalls the sacrifices of the Newfoundland and Canadian soldiers, placing the events of Beaumont-Hamel into the context of the Battle of the Somme and the greater war. Included is a large poster-map depicting the action on the battlefield.