World War I: 1914 Christmas Truce

December 25, 1914 - Along several sections of the Western Front, informal truces are called to celebrate Christmas. On Christmas Eve 1914, after four months of fighting, Christmas trees begin to appear atop the German trenches in British sections of the lines. Listening from their trenches, British troops could hear the German soldiers singing Christmas carols and celebrating the holiday season. After some initial skepticism, the British began to join in which led to numerous localized truces between the warring parties. Crossing between the lines, British and German troops ate and drank together and in several cases organized football (soccer) games. Officially frowned upon by the high command, officers were encouraged to resume combat operations as quickly as possible. In some areas the truce only lasted during Christmas Day, however in others it was extended through New Year's. In all places, both sides returned to battle reluctantly. To the south, truces took place along the French sections of the line (left), but these were much rarer as the Germans were viewed as invaders and a new offensive had recently been launched.

Photograph Source: Public Domain