n December 1944, following the successful invasion of Europe on D-Day and the subsequent offensive through Normandy, the Allies might have been forgiven for thinking the war in the West was all but over.
But Germany crushed any such thoughts on 16 December when they launched a massive offensive in the Ardennes region of Belgium. The battle became known as the Battle of the Bulge. Here are 15 facts about the battle.
1. The battle lasted for 4 weeks
The German attack began 16 December and the battle ended when their withdrawal was completed on 25 January.
2. It was the last major German offensive of the war
Adolf Hitler was determined to launch a fresh offensive in an attempt to force the Allies to the negotiating table. His generals opposed the move, knowing Germany’s resources were limited.
