Poison gas was first used in WWI as a means to break trench warfare stalemates after its development, with the French being the first to use it early in the war. While initially experimental tear gases were used, more lethal gases like chlorine and later phosgene and mustard gas caused major casualties and spread to affect civilians carried by wind. The use of poison gas hurt Germany's relations with neutral countries and resulted in retaliation from their enemies in the war.

1. Poison Gas in WWI
By: Nick Coates, Elliott Hannah,
and Brenna Banks

2. • Prior to WWI the use of poison
gas was not used by any nation
during warfare.

3. • As a result of trench warfare poison gas
was quickly used to break stalemates
between opposing sides.
• Contrary to popular belief the Germans
were not the first to use poison gas
• The French used it in the first month of the
war.
• Civilians were also affected, since wind
could carry the poison gas around.

4. • At first, gas was experimental and was
little more than tear gas.
• First use, came on April 22, 1915 in the
form of chlorine.

5. • Phosgene- More potent than chlorine,
caused chlorine
• Chlorine- First Form, general irritation
• Mustard Gas- odorless, caused blisters
internally and externally.

6. • Everyone thought gas was just a cover for
German advancement.
• As a result of the use of poison gas,
Germany quickly lost alliance with neutral
countries and received retaliation from
enemies.