Battle of Ypres
Canada fought its first major battle of WWI here. German forces used poison gas for the first. This battle proved Canada’s soldiers could fight bravely in modern war.
Battle of the Somme
Canada joined this huge battle in France. Thousands of Canadian soldiers died in just a few months, but they gained small pieces of enemy land. It showed Canada’s growing role in the allied war effort.
Battle of Vimy Ridge
All Canadian divisions fought together for the first time. They captured the heavily defended Vimy Ridge from Germany, a victory that made Canadians proud and built a strong national identity. Many see this battle as a key step in Canada becoming an independent country.