In Normandy, the bocage acquired a particular significance in the Chouannerie during the French Revolution. It was also significant during the Battle of Normandy in World War II, as it made progress against the German defenders difficult. In response, "Rhino tanks" fitted with bocage-cutting modifications were developed. American personnel usually referred to "bocage" as "hedgerows". The German army also used sunken lanes to implement strong points and defenses to stop the American troops on the Cotentin Peninsula and around the town of Saint-Lô.