Why Did the French Plant Trees for Germans to March in Their Shade?

During World War I, Germany invaded France in August 1914. The soldiers were marching in the hot sun, and the French wanted to provide them with shade. However, the reason why the French planted trees for the Germans to march in the shade goes deeper than just simple kindness.

The Strategic Value of Trees

The French were smart in their decision to plant trees. Trees hold strategic value because they provide natural cover and concealment. The Germans would have a harder time spotting the French troops if they were hidden in trees. Furthermore, the trees would also provide a source of timber and other resources that could be used to build fortifications and other structures.

The French Love Affair with Trees

The French have always had a love affair with trees. They were known for planting trees to create symmetry in gardens and to define boulevards. Napoleon III also ordered the planting of millions of trees throughout France to improve farming and combat climate change. Therefore, the decision to plant trees for the Germans to march in was consistent with the French philosophy towards nature.

The Psychological Impact on the Germans

The Germans may have felt psychologically impacted by marching under the shade of trees that were planted by the French. Not only did the French portray kindness towards their enemy, but the trees may have also reminded the Germans of French culture and society. Such a reminder could have made the Germans question their reasons for fighting and war in general.

The Trees as a Symbol of Future Harmony

Planting trees for the Germans to march in the shade may have been a symbol of hope for future harmony between the two nations. The French may have believed that, by taking care of their enemy in a small way, the bond between the nations could be strengthened. They may have hoped that the Germans would see the gesture as a sign of goodwill and that it would promote future peaceful relations between the two nations.

In Conclusion

The decision to plant trees for the Germans to march in the shade during World War I was strategic, consistent with French culture, and potentially impacted the psychological perceptions of the Germans. It may have also been a symbol of hope for future harmony between the French and German nations. Regardless of the reason, this shows that even during times of war, small acts of kindness can make a significant impact.