Watch The Somme 1916: From Both Sides of the Wire

The Somme 1916: From Both Sides of the Wire is a documentary series produced by BBC to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme. It features military historian Peter Barton as he explores the history and legacy of one of the bloodiest battles of World War I through the eyes of soldiers and civilians on both sides of the conflict.

The series consists of three one-hour episodes, each focusing on a different aspect of the Battle of the Somme. The first episode, titled "The Endless Offensive," examines the early stages of the battle, when British troops attempted to break through German defenses with a massive artillery bombardment. Barton, along with a team of archaeologists and historians, travels to the former battlefield to uncover the secrets hidden beneath the earth. Through interviews with descendants of the soldiers who fought in the battle, Barton brings to life the human toll of the conflict and the impact it had on families and communities back home.

The second episode, "Carnage," delves deeper into the horrors of the Somme. Through diaries, letters, and other first-hand accounts, Barton provides a vivid picture of the day-to-day experiences of British, French, and German soldiers as they struggled to survive in the muddy, rat-infested trenches. The episode also explores the medical and logistical challenges of caring for the wounded in the midst of a brutal battle.

The third and final episode, "The Forgotten Front," shifts the focus to the experiences of civilians caught up in the war. Barton highlights the stories of French and Belgian civilians who were forced to flee their homes and face starvation and disease as a result of the conflict. He also examines the role of colonial troops and explores the ways in which the war shaped the political and social landscape of Europe for years to come.

Throughout the series, Barton's expertise and passion for military history is evident. He provides insightful analysis of the strategies and tactics employed by both sides of the conflict and offers a critical perspective on the decisions made by military leaders. His deep empathy for the soldiers and civilians caught up in the war is also evident, and his interviews with modern-day descendants provides an emotional connection to the past.

The cinematography and production design of The Somme 1916: From Both Sides of the Wire are also noteworthy. The series makes use of a range of archival footage and photographs, as well as stunning aerial shots of the former battlefield. The use of reenactments and CGI technology bring to life the realities of life in the trenches and the scale of the battle.

Overall, The Somme 1916: From Both Sides of the Wire is a powerful and moving exploration of one of the defining moments of the 20th century. It offers a nuanced and complex perspective on the conflict, highlighting the experiences and perspectives of soldiers and civilians alike. Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in understanding how war affects ordinary people, this series is a must-watch.

The Somme 1916: From Both Sides of the Wire is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between and on BBC