The Great Retreat
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-28
CORE DEFINITION
The Great Retreat (French: Grande Retraite), also known as the retreat from Mons, took place in the First World War. The retreat covered more than 200 km (120 mi), from Belgium to the River Marne in France in August and September 1914. The French Fifth Army and the British Expeditionary Force had been defeated by the armies of the German Empire at the Battle of Charleroi (21 August) and the Battle of Mons (23 August).
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
The Great Retreat (French: Grande Retraite), also known as the retreat from Mons, took place in the First World War. The retreat covered more than 200 km (120 mi), from Belgium to the River Marne in France.
Anchor fast decisions
When a thing (business, relationship, era dividend) has irreversibly declined, continuing to invest will only drag you down; a graceful retreat (fei dun) to preserve assets and reputation is better than a desperate struggle. Retreating 'fat' (leisurely and unencumbered) is itself a gain.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/4Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Retreatverified
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