Symbolism of Vimy battle significant, says expert

Why is the battle of Vimy Ridge marked when other battles during the First World War that may be of greater significance to the victory in Europe are rarely mentioned or even commemorated?

Many military historians agree that Vimy Ridge, fought 95 years ago this week in 1917, didn't contribute to the victory that ended the war. Those battles took place between August and November 1918, 18 months later.

Jonathan Vance, a professor of history at the University of Western Ontario, says there are many reasons why Canadians mark the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

“The importance is in the symbolism,” said Vance, who has a master's degree in history from Queen's University....