THE GREAT WAR Flashcards
What were the MAIN causes of World War I?
The MAIN causes were Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, and Nationalism.
How did Militarism contribute to the start of World War I?
Militarism involved countries in Europe developing huge standing armies and navies, making them more likely to use war rather than diplomacy to solve problems.
What role did Alliances play in the lead-up to World War I?
Alliances were formed to strengthen countries. Germany and Austria-Hungary were Central Powers, while France and Russia were Allies. Smaller alliances also played a role, with Serbia protected by Russia and Belgium protected by Britain.
How did Imperialism contribute to tensions leading to World War I?
Imperialism led to countries competing for colonies. With no more colonies to take over, they started to take each other’s colonies.
What is Nationalism and how did it contribute to World War I?
Nationalism is pride in one’s country and the belief that it is superior. Smaller countries ruled by larger ones, such as Serbia, wanted independence, contributing to tensions.
Who assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand and why?
Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to Austria, was assassinated by Gavrilo Princip, a 19-year-old Serb part of the terrorist network Black Hand, who wanted all of Serbia to be free.
What was the immediate consequence of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand?
Serbia was blamed for the terrorist attack, leading Austria to invade Serbia. This triggered a chain reaction: Russia declared war on Austria, Germany declared war on Russia, and France declared war on Germany.
How did Germany’s invasion strategy lead to further conflict?
Germany invaded France by going through Belgium, prompting England to declare war on Germany by August 1914.
What was Germany’s initial war plan, and how did it change?
Germany’s plan was to beat France first, but they were stopped at the Battle of the Marne. They then decided to defend their part of France and focus on beating the Russians.
How did both sides protect themselves during the war?
Both sides began to dig hundreds of trenches to protect themselves.
What was Britain’s strategy to weaken Germany?
Britain began a naval blockade of Germany to starve Germany into surrender. Germany relied on imports for 25% of its food.
How did Germany attempt to weaken England?
Germany used U-boats (submarines) to attack Allied ships and starve England, which got 50% of its food from imports.
Which countries joined the Central Powers by 1915?
By 1915, Germany had persuaded Bulgaria and the Ottoman Empire to join Austria-Hungary and Germany in the Central Power Alliances.
How many countries joined the Allies, and which notable countries were included?
The Allies got 54 countries to join their side, including Portugal, Italy, and Japan.
How did the war spread beyond Europe?
The war spread to European colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
