Tanks Used in Battle for First Time

The British Army deployed the Mark I tank for the first time in warfare at Flers-Courcelette during the Somme offensive. Forty-nine tanks were available; only 32 reached their starting points and 18 made it into action before breaking down. Though tactically limited, the psychological impact on German troops was significant. The tank would eventually help break the trench stalemate, though its full potential would not be realized until 1918.