Artifact #5:Wounded being brought. - Vimy Ridge. April, 1917

Citation:

Unknown, Wounded being brought. - Vimy Ridge. April, 1917. Photograph. Library and Archives Canada, Item ID number: 3521840. https://recherche-collection-search.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/Home/Record?app=fonandcol&IdNumber=3521840&q=vimy%20ridge&ecopy=a001016-v8

Label:

The artifact above is a photograph of German prisoners bringing the Canadian wounded back after the battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917. The battle of Vimy Ridge was a proud moment for Canadians during the war, and a military accomplishment that became a symbol of Canadian pride. Despite this, the casualties in the 3 day assault were over 10 600 and the deaths were over 3000. This artifact showcases that despite the swift victory for Canadians at Vimy Ridge, the casualties were staggering. The costly success at Vimy Ridge had convinced Canada to put forward a conscription policy that divided Canadians as many believed Canada's interests would not be in the European conflict. Conscription created political strife in Canada by further dividing English and French Canadians, and was the main issue in the following federal election. Candians role in Vimy Ridge influenced the nation's politics at home and shaped how Canada would continue in the war.

Citation:

Foot, Richard. "Battle of Vimy Ridge" The Canadian Encyclopedia. Last modified November 30, 2023. https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/vimy-ridge