Verdun, Battle of

   The Battle of Verdun, which began February 1916 and lasted until November of that year, was the greatest of World War I. The defense of this French fortress on the Meuse was believed to be vital to France's winning the war. it was, therefore, also believed that it had to be held at all costs. Likewise, the Germans, under the command of General Erich von Falkenhayn and Crown Prince Frederick William, realizing the significance of Verdun, were determined to take it at all costs. The French defense was entrusted to Generals Philippe pétain, who would later be recognized as the hero of Verdun, and georges nivelle. An immense artillery battle, but also one of great individual sacrifice on both sides—the "hell of Verdun"—the largest German offensive of the war, cost the French 360,000 casualties and the Germans 335,000. Verdun was held, but at an enormous price.