2nd Battle of Ypres (apr 22, 1915 – may 25, 1915)

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The battle of ypres happened between April 22nd and May 25th 1915 in belgium. This battle was one of the first times Canadians saw fighting and could show that they were no one to mess with. Ypres did not have many valuable aspects, most of it was just farmland which was shredded throughout the battle. The British wanted this point because of a railroad which was linked to the coast and it would be an easier way to transport supplies. The significance of this battle is because it was the first time Canadians saw fighting but it was also the first time gas was used in a battle and it was mostly successful. Canadian soldiers would have to cover their faces with urine filled towels so they did not inhale the chlorine. They showed much resilience and held their ground while performing counter attacks on the Germans as said in the Canadian Encyclopedia the battered First Division held the ground outside Ypres, buying time until French and British reinforcements could be brought in. Another reason this battle is significant is that this is the place lieutenant John Macrae would right the famous poem in flanders field which is read every remembrance day to remember all the soldiers that died and fought for our country.

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