The major global conflict characterized by trench warfare was World War I, which lasted from 1914 to 1918. Trench warfare was most notably established on the Western Front, where opposing armies faced off in a network of trenches. This type of warfare led to horrific conditions and high casualties, as soldiers endured harsh environments while trying to break the stalemate with limited success. The war fundamentally changed military strategy and had lasting effects on global politics, culminating in the Treaty of Versailles.