Allied Gallipoli Peninsula evacuation marks end of grueling campaign in WWI.

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Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:  | Updated:
5 min read

The Allied evacuation of the Gallipoli Peninsula reached its conclusion with the comprehensive withdrawal from Helles. This action effectively marked the end of the Gallipoli Campaign, a significant segment of World War I. Initially instigated by the Allies with the goal of securing a sea route to Russia and undermining the Ottoman Empire, the campaign saw extensive and grueling combat. The Gallipoli Campaign witnessed substantial contribution of forces from the United Kingdom, France, Australia, New Zealand, India, and Newfoundland against the Ottoman Empire, which was allied with Germany and Austria-Hungary. Over several months, the Allies encountered fierce resistance from the Ottoman forces. The challenging terrain and the strong defensive positions maintained by the Ottomans contributed to the Allies' inability to secure their objectives. Throughout the campaign, both sides sustained heavy casualties. Allied forces suffered approximately 250,000 casualties, encompassing those killed, wounded, and missing. The Ottoman Empire endured similar losses. The harsh conditions, including harsh weather and disease, exacerbated the already high casualty rates for both the combating forces. Facing mounting casualties and limited strategic gains, the Allies concluded that the campaign was untenable. The evacuation process was meticulously planned and executed to minimize further losses. Over successive nights, troops and equipment were systematically withdrawn under the cover of darkness. The withdrawal was carried out with remarkable efficiency and minimal losses, demonstrating the successful planning and execution by the Allied forces. The completion of the evacuation from Helles marked the culmination of the Gallipoli Campaign, rendering the effort unsuccessful from a military standpoint but leaving lasting impacts on all involved nations. The campaign had significant political and social repercussions, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, where it contributed to a growing sense of national identity. #WorldWarI #GallipoliCampaign #AlliedForces #OttomanEmpire #MilitaryHistory #MoofLife
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