The Christmas Truce of 1914

The commercial above is inspired by true events of what happened in December of 1914.

On Christmas Eve, both German & Allied troops are fighting during The Great War. The Germans sang Silent Night in their native tongue, then the Allies responded. As both lines are singing in celebration of Christmas Eve. The following day, at first light, the Germans climbed out from the trenches and greeted their enemies "Merry Christmas". The Allies feared it might be a trap, but looking through their periscopes they're unarmed, and they climbed out of their trenches as both troops shook hands. On this day, a truce was made but technically, this was an unofficial truce from the countries that participated in the Great War. Pope Benedict XV asked for an official truce but was refused by both countries. It may be not recognized as an official agreement, but for the troops on No Man's Land, it was a symbolic moment of peace and humanity in the middle of the battlefield.

As both soldiers exchanged gifts from cigarettes to food, sang Christmas carols, others would take the time to recollect their dead brothers for burial, and they even organized a football match. Can you imagine how would you play football with your enemies turned brothers in the middle of a war zone on Christmas Day?

The truce only lasted 5 months. It was never repeated since it will lead to severe disciplinary action on both forces at that time. After 106 years, this moment in history showed us even if they're fighting and protect their country, they didn't expect to celebrate the season of life, giving, and hope with their enemies. A war that cannot be destroyed by their Christmas spirit.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

Sources:

Lead Image: https://fee.org/articles/the-christmas-truce-of-world-war-i/

https://www.history.com/topics/world-war-i/christmas-truce-of-1914

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-story-of-the-wwi-christmas-truce-11972213/