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The Ardennes Offensive was a major German offensive launched towards the end of World War II through the forested Ardennes Mountains region of Belgium, France and Luxembourg. It is known to the general public simply as the "Battle of the Bulge." The "bulge" was the initial incursion the Germans put into the Allies’ line of advance, as seen in maps presented in contemporary newspapers.

Germany’s goal was to split the British and American Allied line in half, capturing Antwerp, Belgium, and then proceeding to encircle and destroy Allied armies. Almost complete surprise against a weak section of the Allies’ line was achieved during overcast weather, when the Allies’ strong air forces were grounded.

The objectives for the offensive were not realized. In the wake of the defeat, many experienced German units were left severely depleted of men and equipment, as survivors retreated. The Battle of the Bulge became the single biggest and bloodiest battle that American forces experienced in World War II.