Originally Posted by
BenBurch
The genesis of WW1 trench warfare can be found in the American Civil War, for example if I recall correctly, the earthworks around Vicksburg were nearly indistinguishable from WW1 trench systems.
General Lee was derisively called the "King of Spades" for his trench building recommendations by his fellow southerners who imagined a gallant war from horseback with a few infantry to help out.