Video summary
Henry Williamson describes his reaction to being called up and early experiences of life in the trenches.
These experiences included feelings of tremendous comradeship including, at times, with the enemy.
He recounts an informal agreement for temporary ceasefire over Christmas 1914.
During this brief truce, Henry had an opportunity to discuss the purpose of the war with a German soldier.
This is from the series: I Was There: The Great War Interviews.
Contains scenes which may upset younger viewers and there are shots of people smoking.
Teacher review prior to use in class is recommended.
Teacher Notes
This clip could be used to introduce an examination of life in the trenches, and attitudes towards the enemy.
This clip will be relevant for teaching History at KS3, KS4/GCSE, in England and Wales and Northern Ireland.
Also at Third Level, Fourth Level, National 4 and National 5 in Scotland.
This topic appears in OCR, Edexcel, AQA, WJEC, CCEA GCSE and SQA.
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The experiences of a disillusioned soldier and the widow of a soldier killed in action
Going over the top. video
Infantrymen recall the tense hours in the trenches prior to an attack.
Horace Leslie Birks interview. video
Tank commander Horace Birks describes the impact of the supposed miracle machines.
Changes on the home front during WW1. video
Relatives left at home describe what it was like coping whilst the men were away at war.
John Willis Palmer interview. video
John found it difficult to cope with the violence and apparent pointlessness of the war.
Respite. video
How men could relax and forget about life on the front line when behind the lines and get some respite from the war.
