the Belgian Capital in the Grip of War
Though of little military significance, Brussels is the capital of Belgium and its capture by German forces in August 1914 was heralded as a triumph and accorded much acclaim in Germany. The King and Queen of the Belgians along with the government and the army (still in retreat from Liege), moved to Antwerp where it was hoped the triple ring of fortifications would prove sufficient to halt any further German advances. Events turned out differently.
The first month of war in Belgium was, as is usual in such situations, a momentous time. Rumours abounded, reliable news was difficult to obtain and emotions ran the fever pitch, from elation, fervored patriotism to despair. The occupation of Brussels and preceding events were described by various writers and reporters, a number of whom happened to be neutral Americans, which facilitated their movements throughout the city and surrounding countryside. The American Legation in Brussels also had the task of representing German and Austrian interests and after the ocupation, French and British interests. Both the American Minister to Belgium, Brand Whitlock, and the Secretary to the Legation, Hugh Gibson, later wrote insightful and moving accounts of their diplomatic war-time service in Brussels.
*see Nurse Edith Cavell / Visit to the Haelen Battlefield
Brussels was also near to Great Britain and newspublishers lost no time in sending their own reporters, photographers and sketch-artists to the capital of 'Brave Little Belgium'. When forced to leave the city, German photographers took over the task of recording the entry of their victorious army into the capital. Consequently, there are many fine photographs of conditions and events in Brussels during August, both prior and after the German occupation.
from a British magazine : 'The War Budget'
To Texts
To Illustrations
Belgian Mobilization
The Garde Civique
The German Army