Ep 9. Changing Tide

As the war rages on, the balance of power begins to shift with the entry of the United States into the conflict. In episode 9, "Changing Tide," viewers will witness the impact of the fresh American troops on the Western Front and the new weapons and tactics they brought with them.

The episode begins with a look at the state of affairs in the spring of 1917. The Central Powers were continuing their submarine warfare, which was taking a significant toll on Allied shipping and supplies. Despite this, the Allies were gradually gaining ground, with advances in technologies such as tanks and aircraft giving them an edge. However, the British and French armies were still depleted after years of fighting.

Then, in April 1917, the United States declared war on Germany. With their vast resources and fresh troops, the Americans promised to tip the balance of power in favor of the Allies. Episode 9 explores the arrival of the American Expeditionary Forces and their first experiences on the Western Front.

One of the key challenges faced by the Americans was their lack of experience in trench warfare. They had not faced the same level of combat as the European armies and had not developed the same tactics and strategies. As a result, they suffered significant losses in their early battles, such as the Battle of Cantigny in May 1918.

However, the Americans also brought with them new technologies and tactics that would ultimately prove decisive. Their use of tanks, in particular, was revolutionary. Unlike the British and French tanks, which were slow and cumbersome, the American tanks were faster and more maneuverable. They could be used to break through enemy lines and support infantry advances, as demonstrated in the Battle of St. Mihiel in September 1918.

Another key development was the use of American air power. The U.S. Army Air Service was still in its infancy at the start of the war, but it quickly made strides in both technology and tactics. The Americans introduced new aircraft, such as the SPAD XIII, and new tactics such as aerial artillery spotting. They also worked closely with ground troops, providing reconnaissance and aerial support.

Throughout episode 9, viewers will witness the changing tide of the war as the Americans join the conflict. The episode covers key battles such as Cantigny, Belleau Wood, and St. Mihiel, as well as the impact of the American troops on morale and supplies.

Viewers will also see the impact of the war on civilians, both at home and abroad. The episode covers the Russian Revolution and the collapse of the Tsarist regime, as well as the impact of the war on African Americans and other minority groups in the United States.

Overall, "Changing Tide" is a gripping episode that highlights the impact of the United States on the First World War. From new technologies to fresh troops and tactics, the Americans played a crucial role in bringing the conflict to an end. However, the episode also shows the human cost of the war and the sacrifices made by millions of soldiers and civilians around the world.