The Battle of Cambrai commenced as British forces, under the command of General Julian Byng, sought to capture the heavily fortified German positions around the town of Cambrai in northern France. The attack was notable for its innovative use of tanks, which had been developed and refined throughout the previous years of the war. This offensive aimed to breach German defenses and regain momentum on the Western Front after a series of costly engagements. On November 20, 1917, the British forces advanced rapidly in the morning hours, initially achieving considerable success against the surprised German defenders, who were taken aback by the sheer number and effectiveness of the British tanks.

However, despite the early advances and breakthroughs, the British forces faced challenges in maintaining their hard-won positions. The Germans quickly regrouped, bringing in reserves and launching counterattacks. The terrain and the rapid response by German troops contributed to the British being pushed back in several key areas. Heavy fighting persisted over the following days, with both sides incurring significant casualties.

The Battle of Cambrai was a complex interplay of new strategies and traditional warfare, marking a turning point in the mechanical warfare of World War I. It showcased the potential of tanks in modern combat but also highlighted the difficulties of sustaining advances without adequate supply lines and coordination. The battle would evolve over time, with ramifications for future military tactics and the overall course of the war.