World's 1st Army group; 9-17 Aug 1914.

On the 9th August 1914 the worlds first proto-army group was formed when Von Bulow was given command of the 1st and 3rd armies as well as his own 2nd army. 8 days later this was rescinded as the cautious Von Bulow clashed with the agressive Von Kluck. Over the next few weeks these armies became separated, opportunities to encircle and cut off the 5th French army and the BEF were missed and the Marne defeat was the result.

But WI instead of Von Bulow been given command of these 2 extra armies another, higher ranked, general was appointed above all 3 armies on the same day. Could the 5th French army be encircled between the 20-24th of August by coordinated German armies? Would Von Bulow be given the hard push he needed, or replaced with someone more agressive? Would Von Kluck have to change direction on the 31st August, or could he keep heading SW for a few more days?
 
Top