Mustard gas is a devastating chemical weapon that was initially used during World War I. Its effects were horrendous causing extreme suffering and even death, depending on the length of exposure to the toxins. Exposure usually was over a long period of time, since there was no known defense against it and unfortunately there were not many cures until many years later. The Germans were the first to use chemical weapons but soon after, other countries deployed it as well. .
The first chemical weapon used, Chlorine gas, was mainly used as a scare tactic against troops. It initially caused extreme disorientation to the recipient and then suffocation due to water build up in the lungs. In the end temporary paralysis sets in, resulting in the possible incapacitation of an entire military unit. The first example of this was at the first battle of Ypres Salient. Ypres Salient was at a stalemate, and neither side seemed to be anywhere near defeat. The Germans realized that their new chemical weapon could be just what they needed to turn the tides of the battle into their favor. On the evening of April 22, 1915, near Langemarck, the Germans released 168 tons of chlorine in just five minutes. Two French divisions and the entire Canadian division were bombarded over a four-mile front. The gas effects were completely devastating. "Hundreds of men were thrown into a comatose or dying position" (Gilbert 144). An entire French division fled leaving an 800- yard gap in the Allied forces" line. The Germans, wearing gas masks, cautiously advanced capturing both 2000 prisoners and fifty-one guns. This was merely experimental, and the Germans were slowly driven back due to the lack of reinforcement. The following day, .
however, the Germans launched a Chlorine gas attack on the Canadians again, and easily overran them. April 24th was considered another slaughter for the Allied forces, since they lacked the supplies and troops to withstand the constant attack from the Germans.
