When did the Battle of the Somme begin?

The Battle of the Somme began on July 1st, 1916, as a major offensive launched by British and French forces against the German army during World War I. It was intended to relieve pressure on the French at Verdun and break through the German trenches on the Western Front. The battle lasted for several months, characterized by devastating casualties and intense fighting. Despite early setbacks and a high cost of lives, the offensive eventually resulted in some strategic gains for the Allies, but at a tremendous human cost, making it one of the deadliest battles in history.