General von Falkenhayn

General Erich von Falkenhayn was a German military leader during World War I, known for his role as Chief of the General Staff from 1914 to 1916. He is most recognized for orchestrating the Battle of Verdun in 1916, aimed at wearing down French forces. His strategy focused on attrition, seeking to inflict heavy casualties on the enemy. Despite initial successes, the battle turned into a costly stalemate. Falkenhayn's leadership style and decisions led to criticism, and he was eventually replaced due to the high losses and lack of decisive victories for Germany during the war.