Question

Which option best explains why trench warfare was a major part of World War I?

Trenches made wartime communication more efficient.
Trenches allowed armies to dig secret tunnels into enemy territory.
Trenches protected soldiers from new weapons like machine guns.
Trenches created more defined battle lines, which helped civilians avoid trouble.

Answer 1

Trenches protected soldiers from new weapons like machine guns.

Explanation: The rapid-firing machine gun, heavy artillery, and barbed wire made crossing open ground extremely deadly, so armies dug extensive trenches for cover and defense, producing the static, prolonged battles typical of WWI.