Allied Withdrawal from Cape Helles: End of Gallipoli Campaign in World War I.
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Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
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The Allied forces, comprised mainly of British and French troops, undertook withdrawal operations from Cape Helles, marking the end of their presence in the Gallipoli Peninsula. The Gallipoli campaign aimed to secure a decisive victory against the Ottoman Empire, an ally of the Central Powers during World War I, and to establish a supply route to Russia through the Dardanelles.
Initial landings in Gallipoli faced strong resistance and logistical challenges. Soldiers endured harsh conditions, including difficult terrain and severe weather. The Allied forces suffered heavy casualties due to well-prepared Ottoman defenses and lack of adequate intelligence about the region. Throughout the campaign, over 250,000 Allied soldiers were either killed, wounded, or missing, with Ottoman casualties estimated to be roughly in the same range.
The strategic failures, noted missteps in planning, and high-loss battles such as those at Anzac Cove and Suvla Bay culminated in a series of withdrawals. Commanders, recognizing the unsustainable nature of prolonged engagement without substantial gains, decided on a tactical retreat.
The meticulous evacuation from the heavily fortified Cape Helles was executed successfully with minimal casualties, a stark contrast to the losses during the offensive operations. This marked the conclusion of the Gallipoli campaign, a notable episode in World War I.
In retrospective analysis, the campaign is viewed as a significant military and political event. It influenced future military strategies and underscored the importance of comprehensive planning and intelligence in wartime operations. The withdrawal highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the soldiers in adversarial conditions.
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Primary Reference: A Short History Of The Dardanelles Campaign | Imperial War ...
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