WWI Unit Flashcards
Militarism and the Arms Race
Countries relied on war instead of diplomacy, leading to an arms race between Britain and Germany and the expansion of national armies.
Industrialization and War Preparation
Advances in technology increased weapon production, improved access to food and goods, and intensified global competition for resources.
Imperialism and the Scramble for Colonies
European powers fought for land, resources, and control over colonies, increasing tensions and the need for large armies and navies.
Nationalism and Rising Tensions
Countries sought to prove their superiority, citizens took immense pride in their nations, and propaganda was used to gain support against rival states.
Pre-War Conflicts and Growing Hostilities
Small conflicts, such as the Moroccan crisis, Boer War, and Balkan tensions, heightened the animosity between major European powers.
Germany’s “Blank Cheque” to Austria-Hungary
Germany gave Austria-Hungary unconditional support against Serbia, encouraging aggressive action and escalating tensions.
The Assassination That Sparked War
Gavrilo Princip, a Serbian nationalist from the Black Hand group, assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand, triggering Austria-Hungary’s harsh response.
Europe’s Entangled Alliances
The Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the Triple Entente (Britain, France, Russia, with Serbia) ensured that a small conflict could escalate into a global war.
Ultimatums and Diplomatic Failures
Austria-Hungary issued an ultimatum to Serbia, while Germany issued an ultimatum to Russia, prioritizing military mobilization over peaceful resolutions.
Germany’s False Confidence in a Quick War
Germany believed the war would last only nine weeks, underestimating the destructive power of modern warfare.
Austria-Hungary Declares War on Serbia (July 28, 1914)
Using the assassination of Franz Ferdinand as justification, Austria-Hungary officially started the conflict.
Russia Mobilizes to Protect Serbia
As Serbia’s ally, Russia began mobilizing its army, setting off a chain reaction of war declarations.
Germany Declares War on Russia (August 1, 1914)
Viewing Russian mobilization as an act of war against Austria-Hungary, Germany officially entered the conflict.
Germany Declares War on France (August 3, 1914)
Since France was allied with Russia, Germany launched an attack, fearing a two-front war.
Britain Declares War on Germany (August 4, 1914)
Germany’s invasion of neutral Belgium violated a 75-year-old treaty, prompting Britain to enter the war.
Japan Joins the Allies (August 23, 1914)
Honoring its military agreement with Britain, Japan declared war on Germany.
Britain’s Global Empire Joins the Fight
Britain’s entry into WWI led to military and financial support from its colonies, including Canada, Australia, India, and South Africa.
Austria-Hungary Declares War on Japan
In response to Japan siding with the Allies, Austria-Hungary declared war two days later.
The Ottoman Empire Enters the War (November 1914)
After secretly signing a treaty with Germany, the Ottoman Empire officially joined the Central Powers.
The United States Enters the War (April 6, 1917)
Germany’s unrestricted submarine warfare threatened American trade and security, pushing the U.S. to join the war on the side of the Allies.
