Between Arras and Ypres was a region were significant fighting occurred, with some of the most notable fighting around the Vimy area in Artois. The First Battle of Artois was in December 14th – January 13th, 1915. This period was known as the “Race to the Sea,” with both sides trying to flank each other from the north. This caused the fighting to slowly proceed north, from the Battle of Arras in early October 1914.

In the spring of the next year, 1915, Vimy Ridge was decided as the new objective, and was captured on May 9th, during the Second Battle of Artois.

The Third Battle of Artois was considered a failure, as the troops were impeded by uncut wire and excellent German artillery and defensive machine-gun positions.