WW1 research by Gladys Lo

Life in the trenches

ylo23 — 2024-11-26 14:25:40 UTC

life in the trenches was extremely difficult, uncomfortable and dangerous

Soldiers in the trenches

ylo23 — 2024-11-26 14:27:04 UTC

soldiers in the trenches were supported by labourers and medics

Trench conditions

ylo23 — 2024-11-26 14:33:24 UTC

trenches were normally about two metres deep, with wooden supports on either side. They had a dug out where soldiers could resort or try to get some sleep. The area between the enemy trenches was called no man’s land.

Trenches were dug in low land. This meant that they often flooded during heavy rain, creating waterlogged and muddy conditions. When soldiers had to cross no man’s land, they faced enemy fire, as well as muddy ground covered with barbed wire and shell holes that was difficult to navigate

Soldiers’ clothing

ylo23 — 2024-11-26 14:34:26 UTC

soldiers’ clothing often become infected with lice due to the lack of washing abilities. As conditions were so cramped, they would quickly spread amongst the soldiers. Bites from lice were itchy and uncomfortable. Lice could also spread a disease called trench fever. Dead bodies and food rations attracted rats into the trenches, who could bite soldiers and spread disease.

Trench foot was incredibly common. It was caused by soldiers not taking off their boots