question (1 Viewer)

[kendallkreene]

If German submarines sank 259 British ships in 1915, and 436 in 1916, how was it that the unrestricted campaign was suspended in 1915 at the same time? They're still sinking ships during that year...

Not sure if this is a textbook error or if I'm interpreting it wrong?

 

[NowYouTseMe]

If German submarines sank 259 British ships in 1915, and 436 in 1916, how was it that the unrestricted campaign was suspended in 1915 at the same time? They're still sinking ships during that year...

Not sure if this is a textbook error or if I'm interpreting it wrong?

The suspension of unrestricted submarine warfare meant that not all ships(military or non-military) were targeted by the German navy. However, the German government signed the 'Sussex Pledge' stating that merchant ships would be searched, and sunk only if they were found to be carrying contraband materials and that no ship would be sunk before safe passage had been provided for the ship’s crew and its passengers.

Hope this answers your question!