The development and deployment of new weapons played a significant role in making World War I the deadliest in European history. The introduction of modern weapons such as machine guns, artillery, gas, and tanks changed the nature of warfare and resulted in unprecedented levels of casualties.
Machine guns were used extensively in the war and were responsible for the majority of battlefield deaths. They were capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute and could mow down entire groups of soldiers. Artillery was also a major contributor to the death toll, as it could fire shells long distances and cause extensive damage to troops and infrastructure.
The use of gas was another new and deadly weapon in World War I. Chlorine gas, phosgene gas, and mustard gas were used by both sides and caused horrific injuries and deaths. Gas attacks created a new level of terror on the battlefield and often caused panic and chaos.