This book places this key battle of the First World War into the context of the course of the war as a whole, as well as describing the battle and its long-term consequences. It answers key questions such as: Why was the Somme Valley chosen for 'the great push'? Why did Sir Douglas Haig believe that the battle must be won at all costs? and, What inspired General Rawlinson to command his men to walk across no man's land on 1 July, resulting in 58,000 allied casualties in a single day of fighting? Panels explaining the role of key players and strategies are scattered throughout as are fascinating photos and maps to illustrate this important part of British history.