WW1 Unit Test Flashcards
Two Main Alliances in Europe
Triple Entente & Triple Alliance
Triple Entente:
Comprised of France, Russia, Britain, Portugal, and Japan (joined later)
Triple Alliance
Consisted of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy (soon switched), Ottoman Empire (Joined Later), Bulgaria (Joined Later)
Main Background Causes of the War (M.A.I.N.)
Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism and Nationalism
Militarism
The belief was that having a strong military would ensure national security. This created tension and made war seem like a viable option. Germany making a strong navy base to compete with great britain
Alliances
Countries formed alliances to provide mutual protection in case of conflict. These alliances were meant to deter aggression but ultimately created a web of commitments that, when triggered, led to a wider conflict.
Imperialism
Is the forceful expansion of a nation’s authority through territorial conquest, which creates political and economic domination. Great Britain taking over and controlling a lot of countries
Nationalism
Nationalism refers to intense pride in one’s country, or the desire of ethnic groups to have their own nation. Serbians sought independence from the Balkans, which caused tension and conflict.
The “Spark”
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie, by Gavrilo Princip, was the spark that ignited the war. Austria-Hungary, backed by Germany, blamed Serbia and issued an ultimatum, demanding harsh conditions. When Serbia’s response was unsatisfactory, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, which activated the web of alliances, leading to a world war.
Steps to War
- Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia (July 28, 1914).
-Russia, an ally of Serbia, begins to mobilize its army.
-Germany, allied with Austria-Hungary, declares war on Russia (August 1, 1914).
Germany declares war on Russia’s ally, —France, and invades Belgium as part of the Schlieffen Plan.
-The United Kingdom declares war on Germany in defense of Belgium (August 4, 1914).
The Schlieffen Plan:
Germany’s strategy to avoid a two-front war involved first defeating France quickly by invading through neutral Belgium, then focusing on Russia, which was expected to take longer to mobilize.
Did the
Canada’s Reaction to the Outbreak of War
Canada was a British dominion at the time, and its foreign policy was largely tied to Britain. When Britain declared war on Germany, Canada automatically became involved.
Robert Borden
Robert Borden was the Prime Minister of Canada during WWI. He led the country through the war, overseeing the formation of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF).
Why is Robert Borden Significant?
He introduced the War Measures Act and Conscription in 1917 in response to the manpower shortages caused by heavy casualties. Borden’s leadership was key in pushing for Canadian participation in the war and, later, in securing Canada’s role in peace negotiations.
Sam Hughes
Sam Hughes was Canada’s Minister of Militia and Defence at the start of WWI. He played a crucial role in organizing the Canadian military effort.
Why is Sam Hughes significant
Hughes oversaw the training and equipping of soldiers but was criticized for supplying faulty equipment, including poor-quality rifles (Ross Rifle) and inadequate uniforms for the Canadian soldiers.
The Trench System
Trenches were dug to protect soldiers from artillery and machine gun fire. They were often muddy, narrow, and unsanitary, stretching for miles across battlefields.
Life in the Trenches
Soldiers faced poor hygiene, disease (e.g., trench foot), constant exposure to artillery fire, and the psychological strain of warfare. Conditions were grim: rats, lice, and constant mud were common. Soldiers were often in danger from artillery shells, gas attacks, and sniper fire.
Injuries
Common injuries included shrapnel wounds, gas poisoning, and amputations. Shell shock, now known as PTSD
Major Canadian Battles
Ypres (1915), Somme (1916), Vimy (1917), Passchendaele (1917):
Ypres significance
The first major battle where Canadians were involved, and the first large-scale use of poison gas (chlorine gas) by the Germans. Canadian soldiers held the line despite the gas attacks, cementing their reputation.
Somme, 1916 (significance)
A brutal battle with massive casualties, where Canadian soldiers fought alongside British and French forces. Though the Allies advanced, the cost was steep—many Canadians were killed, and it demonstrated the futility of trench warfare.
Vimy (1917) Significance?
The Canadian Corps captured the strategic Vimy Ridge, a victory considered a defining moment for Canada, showcasing the strength and unity of Canadian forces. It was a significant victory and symbol of Canadian national identity.
Passchendaele (1917)
Passchendaele remains one of the most controversial and haunting battles of WWI. It is remembered for its unimaginable suffering and the senselessness of the massive losses sustained. Though a tactical victory for Canadian forces, It was marked by horrendous conditions, massive casualties, and little strategic gain.
New Technology of War
Machine Guns, Tanks, Poison Gas, and Artillery
Machine Guns:
Rapid-fire weapons that could mow down infantry, contributing to the stalemate of trench warfare.
Tanks:
Introduced by the British in 1916, tanks helped break through barbed wire and trench lines, although their early models were unreliable.
Poison Gas:
Used by both sides, it caused painful injuries, blindness, and death. The introduction of gas masks helped mitigate the effects.
Artillery:
Heavy guns that fired explosive shells over long distances, causing massive damage. They played a crucial role in both attacking and defending positions.
War in the air impacts
Aerial warfare had a profound psychological impact on soldiers and civilians. The sudden appearance of enemy aircraft over the front lines or over cities created fear and uncertainty
War in the air strategy
The ability to observe enemy movements and direct artillery fire from the air revolutionized battlefield tactics. Aircraft also played a significant role in disrupting enemy logistics and communication lines.
Billy Bishop
A Canadian flying ace credited with 72 confirmed kills. He became one of the top British Empire aces and was awarded the Victoria Cross for his heroism, particularly during a daring solo attack on a German airfield.
WW I: War at Sea
The naval battles of the war were not only about direct combat between fleets but also about blockades, submarine warfare, and control over vital trade routes. These naval operations had a profound effect on the economies and the morale of the warring nations.
Naval Blockades:
One of the most important elements of naval strategy in WWI was the blockades imposed by the Allied powers, primarily Britain, to cut off supplies to Germany and other Central Powers.
Submarine Warfare (U-boats)
German U-boats (submarines) had a huge impact on naval warfare during WWI. Germany’s use of submarines to attack enemy shipping became one of the most significant tactics of the war.
Cruisers and Destroyers:
These smaller, faster ships were used for protection against submarine attacks, convoy escort missions, and skirmishes.
Impact of Naval Warfare on WWI:
The British blockade of Germany was one of the most effective strategies of WWI, severely limiting Germany’s access to resources. This blockade, combined with the impact of U-boat warfare, contributed to Germany’s eventual collapse in 1918.
Technological Advancements (war at sea)
WWI saw significant advances in naval technology, including the development of submarines (U-boats), dreadnought battleships, convoy systems, and naval aviation. These innovations would play a central role in naval combat during World War II and beyond.
Homefront
This included everything from factory production, food rationing, and military recruitment to social and political changes, such as the role of women and minorities in society. The people on the homefront played a critical role in sustaining their countries’ wartime economies and morale.
Propaganda
Propaganda was a crucial tool during World War I, used to maintain civilian support, encourage enlistment, fund the war effort, and control public opinion.
Propaganda importance
Its importance lay in its ability to manipulate emotions, control narratives, and foster national unity. Effective propaganda needed to be simple, repetitive, emotionally charged, visually impactful, and targeted to specific groups, often framing the war as a moral crusade against evil. This manipulation of information and emotions helped shape the war’s outcome, both on the battlefield and at home.
Why Was Rationing Introduced?
Shipping lanes were often blocked or targeted by the enemy, and military priorities meant that factories and agricultural lands were redirected to producing materials for the war effort (such as weapons, ammunition, and military uniforms). This led to shortages of everyday goods like food, fuel, and raw materials.
What Was Rationed?
Food (for military), fuel, clothing
How Was Rationing Implemented?
Ration Cards and Coupons and were encouraged to use substitutes
Impact of Rationing
Helped stabilize the economy, provided value to citizens.
Why Was Rationing Important?
Rationing ensured that essential goods and resources were directed toward supporting the military. By controlling civilian consumption, governments were able to maintain supplies for the army and prevent shortages that could have impacted the war effort.
Women in War
Women stepped in to work in factories, manufacturing weapons, ammunition, and other essential supplies needed for the war effort. They also took on nursing roles, agricultural work, propaganda and volunteer work.
Impact of Women’s Involvement in WWI
Changed gender norms, some nations acknowledged and rewarded women, economic independence and workforce changes.
Key Features of the Wartime Elections Act
Extension of the Vote to Women, Exclusion of “Enemy Aliens” from the Vote, impacted the federal election
Significance and Impact (Expansion of Women’s Rights:)
The Act was a key moment in the struggle for women’s suffrage in Canada. Although it was not universal suffrage, it was a step toward the recognition of women as political actors and set the stage for full voting rights in the years following the war.
Political Influence and the Conscription Crisis
The passage of the Wartime Elections Act helped Borden’s government secure the political support it needed to implement conscription. By expanding the voting base among those who were more likely to support conscription, the government ensured that it could carry out policies that were highly divisive and unpopular among certain segments of the population.
Long-Term Impact on Canadian Democracy:
Although it was seen as a wartime necessity, the Wartime Elections Act represented an important step in the evolution of Canada’s democratic system, especially regarding the roles of women and minority groups in shaping national policy.
The Treatment of Indigenous Canadians During WWI
Indigenous soldiers who served in WWI were exempt from the military’s enlistment regulations and were often placed in labor battalions or combat roles. Indigenous soldiers showed remarkable courage and were highly decorated, but their contributions were often overlooked by the Canadian government.
Enemy Aliens
The term “enemy aliens” referred to citizens or residents of a country who were originally from nations that were at war with the country. During WWI, Canada declared war on Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire, which meant that individuals from these countries living in Canada were labeled as “enemy aliens,” even if they had been in Canada for many years.
The Role of Minorities and “Enemy Aliens” in WWI
Black Canadians, for example, were largely excluded from combat roles. Indigenous Canadians were also initially discouraged from enlisting, Enemy aliens” were often excluded from service or were pressured into fighting in auxiliary roles.
The Forced Internment of “Enemy Aliens”:
The Canadian government implemented a system of internment for suspected “enemy aliens.” Internment camps were set up across Canada, and about 8,000 people—including some women and children—were imprisoned. These people were often detained without any evidence of wrongdoing or proof of disloyalty.g
Conscription Crisis
In Canada, conscription was introduced in 1917 by the government of Prime Minister Robert Borden through the Military Service Act. The goal was to address the severe shortage of soldiers for the Canadian Expeditionary Force
Why Was Conscription Introduced?
By 1917, the war had been dragging on for three years, and the number of casualties among Canadian soldiers was increasing rapidly. The Battle of the Somme (1916), Passchendaele (1917), and other major battles had decimated the ranks of the Canadian forces.
Reactions to Conscription:
Many veterans and English speakers supported it, however The French speakers didn’t, because they felt it didn’t align with their interests.
Consequences and Aftermath of the Conscription Crisis
Despite the widespread opposition, conscription was implemented in 1918. However, it failed to fully resolve the manpower shortage, as the war ended in November 1918, before conscription could have a major impact on the battlefield.
End of War, Impact on the World?
The war had a devastating impact on the economies of many European countries. The costs of the war were enormous, and many countries faced massive debt, inflation, and economic instability in the aftermath.
The Treaty of Versailles
The Treaty of Versailles formally ended the war and was signed in June 1919. It imposed harsh terms on Germany, including territorial losses, military restrictions, and the payment of reparations to the Allied powers.
Intended outcome of the Treaty
The primary intention behind the Treaty of Versailles was to punish Germany for its role in instigating the war, reduce their military, pay for war costs and accept war guilt.
When and why did the Ottoman Empire join Germany
The Ottomans hoped that joining the war on the side of the Central Powers would help them recover some of their lost territories and gain strategic advantages, particularly against Russia, which had long been an adversary in late 1914.
Why did Portugal join the Triple Entente in March 9, 1916?
Portugal had a long-standing alliance with Britain, Portugal had economic ties to Britain and France and was keen to maintain these relations. Additionally, the Portuguese hoped that their participation would bring diplomatic rewards such as territorial gains.
Why did Japan join the Triple Entente in August 1914?
Japan’s main objective in entering the war was to expand its influence in East Asia and the Pacific. Japan had a formal alliance with Britain, when World War I broke out, Japan had a growing industrial economy and saw opportunities for economic expansion during the war.
Why did Bulgaria join the war on the side of the Triple Alliance, in 1915.
The primary motivation for Bulgaria’s entry into World War I was the desire to recover lost territory and expand its borders in the Balkans. Bulgaria was economically weaker than many of the other European powers, and joining the Central Powers gave it military and economic assistance, particularly from Germany. They were also promised additional land after territorial gain.
Why the Schlieffen Plan Failed
- Plan was based on an old treaty guaranteeing that Belgium would remain neutral
- Germany assumed that Britain would not object to the invasion of Belgium
Ww1 Impact on the world
Four imperial dynasties collapsed, the mass movement of soldiers and refugees led to the Spanish Flu.
Why did the United States Join the war in April 6, 1917.
Germans sank a British civilian ship called the Lusitania, which was secretly carrying some ammunition. This ship contained some US citizens, so the President Wilson made Germany promise to limit submarine warfare and Germany agreed but later continued. Germanys minister also screlty sent a telegram to Mexico to propose an alliance. After Germany resumed unrestricted submarine warfare and following the discovery of the Zimmermann Telegram, the United States entered the war on April 6.
Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia.
July 28, 1914
Germany declares War on Russia.
August 1, 1914
Germany declares war on France.
August 3, 1914
Britain declares war on Germany.
August 4, 1914
Austria declares war on Russia.
August 6, 1914
Japan declares war on Germany.
August 23, 1914
Austria declares war on Japan.
August 25, 1914
The U.S. declares war on Germany.
April 6, 1917
The U.S. declares war on Austria-Hungary.
December 7, 1917
Why did Germany declare war on Russia?
Serbia’s ally Russia started mobilizing for war. Austria-Hungary’s ally Germany demanded Russia stop preparing for war. When Russia refused, Germany declared war on Russia on August 1, 1914.
Why did Germany declare war on France
France prepared for war in support of its ally Russia.
Challenges to Women in the Workforce
Received poor treatment and lower wages
, were expected to return home and fulfill their domestic roles after the war ended
Wartime Elections Act of 1917
gave the vote to female relatives (some not all) of Canadian soldiers serving overseas in the First World War. It also took the vote away from many Canadians who had immigrated from “enemy” countries.
suffragists
At the beginning of the 20th century women in many countries had begun to organize themselves to gain the right to vote
Members of this movement in Canada were called suffragists
Why was Germany at fault for ww1?
The Schlieffen Plan and the Invasion of Belgium, Unrestricted Submarine Warfare, its support for Austria-Hungary’s actions against Serbia and its aggressive foreign policy.
What are the consequences of the conscription crisis.
It led to the creation of Prime Minister Borden’s Union Government and drove most of his French-Canadian supporters into opposition.
