Armistice Day

November 11, Tuesday

Armistice Day
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The Compiègne Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, marking the end of hostilities on the Western Front of the First World War. It brought an end to four years of bloodshed between the Allies and the German Empire. The armistice was concluded in a railway carriage located in the forest near the French town of Compiègne.

Context of the Signing

By the autumn of 1918, Germany was in a difficult situation. Military resources were depleted, the population was tired and disappointed, and a revolution was brewing in the country. The Allied powers were increasing pressure, and the front was collapsing. In this context, the German leadership requested an armistice, hoping to prevent further destruction of the country.

Place and Form of the Negotiations

The negotiations took place in a special railway carriage of Marshal Ferdinand Foch. The choice of this location was not accidental. It allowed avoiding unnecessary attention and provided relative safety and neutrality. The signing took place early in the morning but came into effect only at 11:00 on the 11th day of the 11th month, which became symbolic.

Main Terms of the Armistice

* Cessation of hostilities on all fronts.
* Withdrawal of German troops from occupied territories.
* Transfer of a significant portion of weapons to the Allies.
* The naval blockade of Germany remained in place until a full peace treaty was signed.

These terms effectively represented Germany's military defeat.

Memory and Celebration

November 11 became the date of national commemorative events in many countries. It is known under different names:

* Armistice Day
* Remembrance Day (in several Commonwealth countries)
* Veterans Day (in the USA, though its original meaning was later expanded)

On this day, the memory of all those who died in wars is honored. The traditional symbol became the red poppy, associated with the images of the battlefields in Flanders.

Reuse of the Signing Location

In 1940, after Nazi Germany’s victory over France, Adolf Hitler specifically ordered the signing of France's surrender in the same railway carriage. This was done as an act of political and symbolic humiliation. Later, the carriage was destroyed, but a memorial complex was created in Compiègne, where its reconstruction is preserved.

Significance of the Compiègne Armistice Today

Today, this date serves as a reminder of the importance of peace, diplomacy, and the cost of armed conflicts. Commemorative ceremonies are held at memorials, military cemeteries, and monuments to the Unknown Soldier. In schools and community organizations, the history of the First World War and its consequences are discussed.

This holiday is not so much a celebration of victory as it is a day of mourning, respect, and deep reflection on what war brought to the world and at what cost peace was achieved.

Armistice Day

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Armistice Day in other years

Armistice Day in other countries

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