History of Europe

Was there mustard gas at World War 1?

Yes, mustard gas was used extensively during World War I. It was first used by the German army on July 12, 1917, against British troops at Ypres, Belgium. Mustard gas is a blistering agent that causes severe burns to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It can also cause permanent blindness and damage to the lungs. Over 1 million casualties were caused by mustard gas during World War I, and around 100,000 of those casualties resulted in death.