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| Souchez Mairie |
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| Souchez Topography |
In the initial stages of World War One, during the Race to the Sea, the Germans seized Vimy Ridge and part of Notre Dame de Lorette, Souchez becoming a German defensive position.
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| Front line Souchez January 1915. |
In May 1915, the French launched an attack (Second Battle of Artois) to size the high ground under German control. They were successful in capturing the German positions on Notre Dame de Lorette, but were unable to seize Vimy Ridge. A partial breakthrough had been achieved, however this could not be exploited. At the end of the battle, Souchez remained in German hands.
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| Second Battle of Artois 9 May - 18 June 1915 |
Despite the failure to capture Vimy Ridge the French Commander in Chief, Joffre, was determined to launch another offensive. The partial break through during the fighting in May convinced him that success was possible. Joffre intended to focus his main effort in the Champagne Sector with a secondary attack in the Artois Sector supported by the British attacking Loos.
In Artois, the French 10th Army would attack with three Corps preceded by a 4 day bombardment. The artillery preparation commenced on 21st September 1915. The assault was launced on the 25th September, and despite some early gains, the French were unable to penetrate beyond the German Second Line. The Battle ground on till 13th October.
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| Third Battle of Artois 25 September - 15 October 1915 |
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| Souchez Ruins |