WORLD WAR I
World War One, what a sad, sad story,
A story of hope, love and glory,
Those lives we lost always remembered,
The guns fired their last, that day in November,
Shots fill the air, startling sounds all around,
A sudden blast, as a bomb touched the ground,
Those courageous men, fighting together,
They are in our thoughts today and forever,
Our lives are changed, forever and ever.
A story of hope, love and glory,
Those lives we lost always remembered,
The guns fired their last, that day in November,
Shots fill the air, startling sounds all around,
A sudden blast, as a bomb touched the ground,
Those courageous men, fighting together,
They are in our thoughts today and forever,
Our lives are changed, forever and ever.
Click the link for the video
World War I - summary of the "Great War"
If you are new to the First World War - or are rusty after many years since history class - the reasons for the so-called 'Great War' can be shrouded in confusion.
The Second World War was rather more straightforward: no questions there who did what and who was at fault.
The First World War (1914-1918) was an unprecedented even in the history of the world, both in its scale and magnitude of effects.
World War I also known as the First World War, the Great War, and the War to End All Wars, was a global military conflict that embroiled most of the world's great powers, assembled in two opposing alliances: the Entente and the Central Powers. Over 70 million military personnel were mobilized in one of the largest wars in history. The main combatants descended into a state of total war, pumping their entire scientific and industrial capabilities into the war effort. Over 15 million people were killed, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in history.
World War I is infamous for the protracted stalemate of trench warfare along the Western Front, embodied within a system of opposing manned trenches and fortifications (separated by a "No man's land") running from the North Sea to the border of Switzerland. Hostilities were also prosecuted, however, by more dynamic invasion and battle, by fighting at sea and - for the first time - in and out from the air. Also, there were some battles that foreshadowed the rapid movement of WWII, take for example the Battle of St. Mihel in 1918. Here, within a matter of one day, American troops, supported by tanks, airplanes, and artillery, advanced over 20 miles, clearing a salient that had been a thorn in the side of the French army since 1914. More than 9 million soldiers died on the various battlefields, and nearly that many more in the participating countries' home fronts on account of food shortages and genocide committed under the cover of various civil wars and internal conflicts. In World War I, only some 5% of the casualties (directly caused by the war) were civilian - in World War II, this figure approached 50%.
Ultimately, World War I created a decisive break with the old world order that had emerged after the Napoleonic Wars, as modified by the mid-19th century national revolutions, the processes of European national unification and European colonialism. Three European land empires were shattered and subsequently dismembered to varying degrees: the German, the Austro-Hungarian and the Russian. In the Balkans and the Middle East, the Ottoman Empire experienced the same fate. Three European imperial dynasties, represented by the Hohenzollern, the Habsburg and the Romanov families in Germany, Austria-Hungary and Russia respectively, also fell during the war.
World War I witnessed the first advent of Communism as a means of government in Russia. The following decades would see the transformation of the old Russian Empire into the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, a global power. In the east, the demise of the Ottoman Empire paved the way for the states such as Republic of Turkey and a number of successor states and territories throughout the Middle East. In Central Europe, the new states of Czechoslovakia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and Yugoslavia were born and Austria, Hungary and Poland were re-created. Shortly after the war, in 1923, Fascists came to power in Italy; in 1933, 14 years after the war, Nazism took over Germany. Problems unresolved or created by the war would be highly important factors in the outbreak, within 20 years, of World War II.
Ultimately, World War I created a decisive break with the old world order that had emerged after the Napoleonic Wars, as modified by the mid-19th century national revolutions, the processes of European national unification and European colonialism. Three European land empires were shattered and subsequently dismembered to varying degrees: the German, the Austro-Hungarian and the Russian. In the Balkans and the Middle East, the Ottoman Empire experienced the same fate. Three European imperial dynasties, represented by the Hohenzollern, the Habsburg and the Romanov families in Germany, Austria-Hungary and Russia respectively, also fell during the war.
World War I witnessed the first advent of Communism as a means of government in Russia. The following decades would see the transformation of the old Russian Empire into the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, a global power. In the east, the demise of the Ottoman Empire paved the way for the states such as Republic of Turkey and a number of successor states and territories throughout the Middle East. In Central Europe, the new states of Czechoslovakia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and Yugoslavia were born and Austria, Hungary and Poland were re-created. Shortly after the war, in 1923, Fascists came to power in Italy; in 1933, 14 years after the war, Nazism took over Germany. Problems unresolved or created by the war would be highly important factors in the outbreak, within 20 years, of World War II.
Did you get understand? Let us begin this lesson with this video clip.
world war I in colour
CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF WORLD WAR 1
•Why was Europe on the brink of war in 1914?
•Why did war break out?
•What were the results of the fighting in 1914?
•Why did war break out?
•What were the results of the fighting in 1914?
Let's see another video clip on World War I.
What are the causes for the rising tensions in Europe, 1914 ?
That's a good question! Ok. -Tensions result of four factors. Let's have a glance of these points.
–Militarism
–Alliances
–Imperialism
–Nationalism
–Militarism
–Alliances
–Imperialism
–Nationalism
MILITARISM: •Massive military buildup in European countries, late 1800s and early 1900s
•Wanted to protect overseas colonies from other nations
•Growing power of armed forces left all sides ready to act at first sign of trouble
•Minor disagreements had potential to turn to armed conflict
ALLIANCES:
•Nations formed partnerships to protect against opposing forces
•Triple Alliance united Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy
•Great Britain joined France, Russia in Triple Entente
•Believed no one nation would attack another, because allies would join fight
•Nations formed partnerships to protect against opposing forces
•Triple Alliance united Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy
•Great Britain joined France, Russia in Triple Entente
•Believed no one nation would attack another, because allies would join fight
IMPERIALISM:
•Late 1800s and early 1900s saw quest to build empires
•Created rivalry, ill will among European nations
•Germany, France, Russia, Great Britain vied to become great imperial nations
•Each did not want others to gain power
•Late 1800s and early 1900s saw quest to build empires
•Created rivalry, ill will among European nations
•Germany, France, Russia, Great Britain vied to become great imperial nations
•Each did not want others to gain power
NATIONALISM:
•Strong devotion to one’s national group or culture, increased in late 1800s
•Led to formation of new countries, struggles for power
•Most visible in Balkan Peninsula, southeastern Europe
•Home to many ethnic groups trying to break free from Ottoman Empire
•Led to formation of new countries, struggles for power
•Most visible in Balkan Peninsula, southeastern Europe
•Home to many ethnic groups trying to break free from Ottoman Empire
Now, do you know the causes of the World War 1? Still not got it! OK, look at these two video clippings and jot down some points and then check the answers. So what are the causes? Shall we go through those points again? Yea, let's do it.
Militarism: Was another cause of the war, was simliar to the arms race of today. Because Britain had a great navy, Germany wanted a great navy too. Germany and France competed for larger armies. The more one nation built up its army and navy, the more other nations felt they had to do the same.
ALLIANCE SYSTEM: For Twenty years, the nations of Europe had been making alliances. It was thought the alliances would promote peace. Each country would be protected by others in case of war. making it foolish for one country to wage war on another.
The danger of these alliances was that an argument between two countries could draw all the other nations into a fight. This is just what happened when a conflict between Austria-Hungary and Serbia led to World War 1.
In the summer of 1914 there were two alliances. The Triple Alliance composed of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, stood opposed to the Triple Entente composed of Britain, France, and Russia.
The danger of these alliances was that an argument between two countries could draw all the other nations into a fight. This is just what happened when a conflict between Austria-Hungary and Serbia led to World War 1.
In the summer of 1914 there were two alliances. The Triple Alliance composed of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, stood opposed to the Triple Entente composed of Britain, France, and Russia.
IMPERIALISM: Another cause was that European nations ruled smaller countries, called colonies, and competed with each other to amass more colonies. Gatehring colonies became known as IMPERIALISM. Both France and Britain had many colonies in Africa and Asia. Now Germany and Italy decided they wanted a colonial empire too.
NATIONALISM:In addition to political conflicts, the causes of the war included such forces as NATIONALISM, or patriotism. Nationalism led European nations to compete for the largest army and navy, or the greatest industrial development. It also gave groups of subject peoples the idea of forming independent nations of their own.
ESCALATION
The war that would destroy European society had been coming for a long time. The nineteenth century had been an era of great progress,
and of turmoil and conflict as well. New nations had been created. The balance of power that existed in 1815, at the end of the era of Napoleon, was disturbed.
Adding to the danger was a false sense of security. Local wars had flared up in the nineteenth century, but a major war was regarded as unlikely. Looking back at 1914 today, however, we can see that each of the major countries of Europe had interests that would bring it into conflict with at least one of the other great powers.
and of turmoil and conflict as well. New nations had been created. The balance of power that existed in 1815, at the end of the era of Napoleon, was disturbed.
Adding to the danger was a false sense of security. Local wars had flared up in the nineteenth century, but a major war was regarded as unlikely. Looking back at 1914 today, however, we can see that each of the major countries of Europe had interests that would bring it into conflict with at least one of the other great powers.
SPARK
On June 28, 1914, Gacrilo Princip, a nineteen-year-old Serbian revolutionary, fired two pistols shots. One killed Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the nephew of Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria-Hungary and heir to the Austrian throne. The other killed Sophie, his wife.
Franz Ferdinand and his wife leaving Cityhall Sarajevo just before they got murdered
Austria-Hungary held Serbia responsible. On July 5 Austria asked for and recieved from Germany a "blank check" of support for any action Austria-Hungary might take against Serbia.
On July 23 Austria sent a series of demands to the Serbians. The demands were designed to humiliate and virtually destroy the Serbian nation. Still, Serbia agreed to most but not all of the demands.
Austria reacted on July 28 by declaring war on Serbia. The Russians prepared to defend Serbia. On July 31 the Germans sent a warning to Russia to stop mobilizing its army for war. the Russians ignored the warning, and Germany declared war on Russia on August 1. France came to the aid of its Russian ally by declaring war on Germany. The British hesitated, but when the Germans marched into Belgium, they declared war on Germany on Aug 4.
Italy, the third member of the Triple Alliance, refused to back Germany and Austria-Hungary. Italy claimed the Triple Alliance was for defensive purposes only and Austria's declaration of war against Serbia was no defensive.
So in August, 1914, the guns of the war went off. The system of alliances for keeping peace had brought the great nations of Europe into war with one another.
Austria-Hungary held Serbia responsible. On July 5 Austria asked for and recieved from Germany a "blank check" of support for any action Austria-Hungary might take against Serbia.
On July 23 Austria sent a series of demands to the Serbians. The demands were designed to humiliate and virtually destroy the Serbian nation. Still, Serbia agreed to most but not all of the demands.
Austria reacted on July 28 by declaring war on Serbia. The Russians prepared to defend Serbia. On July 31 the Germans sent a warning to Russia to stop mobilizing its army for war. the Russians ignored the warning, and Germany declared war on Russia on August 1. France came to the aid of its Russian ally by declaring war on Germany. The British hesitated, but when the Germans marched into Belgium, they declared war on Germany on Aug 4.
Italy, the third member of the Triple Alliance, refused to back Germany and Austria-Hungary. Italy claimed the Triple Alliance was for defensive purposes only and Austria's declaration of war against Serbia was no defensive.
So in August, 1914, the guns of the war went off. The system of alliances for keeping peace had brought the great nations of Europe into war with one another.
great war 1
Assassination of Franz Ferdinand
28th June 1914
Franz Ferdinand, aged 51, was heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He was married to Sophie Chotek von Chotvoka and had three children. Franz Ferdinand was, however, very unpopular because he had made it clear that once he became Emperor he would make changes.
This map, of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1914, shows that Bosnia/Herzegovnia was controlled by Austria. Austria had annexed (taken by force) Bosnia in 1908, a move that was not popular with the Bosnian people.
Franz Ferdinand decided to visit Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovnia, to make an inspection of the Austro-Hungarian troops there. The inspection was scheduled for 28th June 1914. It was planned that Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie would be met at the station and taken by car to the City Hall where they would have lunch before going to inspect the troops.
A Serbian terrorist group, called The Black Hand, had decided that the Archduke should be assassinated and the planned visit provided the ideal opportunity. Seven young men who had been trained in bomb throwing and marksmanship were stationed along the route that Franz Ferdinand's car would follow from the City Hall to the inspection.
The first two terrorists were unable to throw their grenades because the streets were too crowded and the car was travelling quite fast. The third terrorist, a young man called Cabrinovic, threw a grenade which exploded under the car following that of the Archduke. Although the Archduke and his wife were unhurt, some of his attendants were injured and had to be taken to hospital.
After lunch at the City Hall, Franz Ferdinand insisted on visiting the injured attendants in hospital. However, on the way to the hospital the driver took a wrong turn. Realising his mistake he stopped the car and began to reverse. Another terrorist, named Gavrilo Princip, stepped forward and fired two shots. The first hit the pregnant Sophia in the stomach, she died almost instantly. The second shot hit the Archduke in the neck. He died a short while later.
The bodies of Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie.
Gavrilo Princip was not executed because he was under 20 years, but was sentenced to twenty years in prison. He died of TB in 1918.
28th June 1914
Franz Ferdinand, aged 51, was heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He was married to Sophie Chotek von Chotvoka and had three children. Franz Ferdinand was, however, very unpopular because he had made it clear that once he became Emperor he would make changes.
This map, of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1914, shows that Bosnia/Herzegovnia was controlled by Austria. Austria had annexed (taken by force) Bosnia in 1908, a move that was not popular with the Bosnian people.
Franz Ferdinand decided to visit Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovnia, to make an inspection of the Austro-Hungarian troops there. The inspection was scheduled for 28th June 1914. It was planned that Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie would be met at the station and taken by car to the City Hall where they would have lunch before going to inspect the troops.
A Serbian terrorist group, called The Black Hand, had decided that the Archduke should be assassinated and the planned visit provided the ideal opportunity. Seven young men who had been trained in bomb throwing and marksmanship were stationed along the route that Franz Ferdinand's car would follow from the City Hall to the inspection.
The first two terrorists were unable to throw their grenades because the streets were too crowded and the car was travelling quite fast. The third terrorist, a young man called Cabrinovic, threw a grenade which exploded under the car following that of the Archduke. Although the Archduke and his wife were unhurt, some of his attendants were injured and had to be taken to hospital.
After lunch at the City Hall, Franz Ferdinand insisted on visiting the injured attendants in hospital. However, on the way to the hospital the driver took a wrong turn. Realising his mistake he stopped the car and began to reverse. Another terrorist, named Gavrilo Princip, stepped forward and fired two shots. The first hit the pregnant Sophia in the stomach, she died almost instantly. The second shot hit the Archduke in the neck. He died a short while later.
The bodies of Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie.
Gavrilo Princip was not executed because he was under 20 years, but was sentenced to twenty years in prison. He died of TB in 1918.
cause n effect
TREATY OF VERSAILLES:
The treaty of Versailles granted france many of its demands. Germany had to return AlsaceLorraine and give France control of the coal mines of the Saar region for 15 years. Germany also lost land to Poland. To give Poland access to the Baltic Sea, the Polish Corridor was created. This was a strip of land that separated East Prussia from the rest of Germany. The Baltic Sea port of Danzig became a free trading city, controlled by neither Poland nor Germany.
German territory on oth sides of the Rhine River were demilitarized. To prevent Germany from again becoming a military threat, the treaty also reduced the German army to 100,000 men, with no heavy artillery, tanks, or warplanes.
Germany also lost its overseas territories in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Ocean. Its African colonies were given to France and Britain as mandates.
The treaty required Germany to pay reparations-war damages- to other nations. Germany had to make up for loss of property, factories, farms, ships, and other things destroyed in the war.
The various nationalities in the former Austro-Hungarian Empire carved out their own states. The peacemakers recognized these as independant nations. Czechs and Slovaks formed the new country Czechoslovakia. The Croats and the Slovenes joined with Serbia to form Yugoslavia. The new Austria, greatly reduced in size and power, and was forbidden to unite with Germany. The Ottoman Empire was stripped of all its lands outside Turkey.
League of Nations a former international organization, formed after WORLD WAR I to promote international peace and security. The basis of the League, the Covenant, was written into the Treaty of VERSAILLES and other peace treaties and provided for an assembly, a council, and a secretariat. A system of colonial mandates was also set up. The U.S., which failed to ratify the Treaty of Versailles, never became a member. Based in Geneva, the League proved useful in settling minor international disputes, but was unable to stop aggression by major powers-e.g., Japan's occupation of Manchuria (1931), Italy's conquest of Ethiopia (1935-36), and Germany's seizure of Austria (1938). It collapsed early in World War II and dissolved itself in 1946. The League established the first pattern of permanent international organization and served as a model for its successor, the UNITED NATIONS. (source encyclopedia.com
The fairness of this treaty to Germany was debated for years. Critics pointed out that the kaisers gov had already been toppled. The burden of carrying out the treaty fell on a new democratic German Gov, making it difficult for this new Government to survive.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES FOR THE FIRST WORLD WAR?
The treaty of Versailles granted france many of its demands. Germany had to return AlsaceLorraine and give France control of the coal mines of the Saar region for 15 years. Germany also lost land to Poland. To give Poland access to the Baltic Sea, the Polish Corridor was created. This was a strip of land that separated East Prussia from the rest of Germany. The Baltic Sea port of Danzig became a free trading city, controlled by neither Poland nor Germany.
German territory on oth sides of the Rhine River were demilitarized. To prevent Germany from again becoming a military threat, the treaty also reduced the German army to 100,000 men, with no heavy artillery, tanks, or warplanes.
Germany also lost its overseas territories in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Ocean. Its African colonies were given to France and Britain as mandates.
The treaty required Germany to pay reparations-war damages- to other nations. Germany had to make up for loss of property, factories, farms, ships, and other things destroyed in the war.
The various nationalities in the former Austro-Hungarian Empire carved out their own states. The peacemakers recognized these as independant nations. Czechs and Slovaks formed the new country Czechoslovakia. The Croats and the Slovenes joined with Serbia to form Yugoslavia. The new Austria, greatly reduced in size and power, and was forbidden to unite with Germany. The Ottoman Empire was stripped of all its lands outside Turkey.
League of Nations a former international organization, formed after WORLD WAR I to promote international peace and security. The basis of the League, the Covenant, was written into the Treaty of VERSAILLES and other peace treaties and provided for an assembly, a council, and a secretariat. A system of colonial mandates was also set up. The U.S., which failed to ratify the Treaty of Versailles, never became a member. Based in Geneva, the League proved useful in settling minor international disputes, but was unable to stop aggression by major powers-e.g., Japan's occupation of Manchuria (1931), Italy's conquest of Ethiopia (1935-36), and Germany's seizure of Austria (1938). It collapsed early in World War II and dissolved itself in 1946. The League established the first pattern of permanent international organization and served as a model for its successor, the UNITED NATIONS. (source encyclopedia.com
The fairness of this treaty to Germany was debated for years. Critics pointed out that the kaisers gov had already been toppled. The burden of carrying out the treaty fell on a new democratic German Gov, making it difficult for this new Government to survive.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES FOR THE FIRST WORLD WAR?
Remeber 4 points.
1. AGGRESSIVE NATIONALISM: Europe saw the emergence of aggressive nationalism which generated a sense of superiority among the people. They had grown proud of their country and considered it a sacred duty to fight for the coutnry. Whether the country was right or wrong, colonies were also considered a matter of national prestige.
2. THE SYSTEM OF RIVAL ALLIANCES: Towards the end of the 19th century, a number of countries of Europe entered into alliances to safeguard their economic and political interests. Germany formed a Triple Alliance with the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Italy. England, France and Russia formed Triple Entente. On account of these alliances, Europe was divided into two hostile camps.
3. THE ARMAMENT RACE:- The mutual suspicion of these two groups gave rise to arms race. Every nation in Europe built vast reserves of arms and ammunitions. The countries comepted with each other to modernise their respective war machineries and increase the strength of the army.
4. IMMEDIATE CAUSE: When the Austrian crown-prince visited the Bosnian capital Sarajevo in 1914, he was murdered by a Serbian. Austria wanted to punish Serbia, hence it declared war and sought the help of Germany. Russia supported Serbia. Thus the World War I broke out. Germany, Austria, Turkey and Bulgaria were on one side. Serbia, England, Belgium, Italy, Russia and France were on the opposite side. In the course of the time, the USA also joined England.
THE COURSE OF THE WAR:
Germany attacked France and England on behalf of France and Belgium, declared war on Germany. The group led by England was called Allied powers and its opponents were called Axis powers. Japan joined the Allied powers. Fearing an invasion from Russia, Turkey joined hands with Germany. Bulgaria, an enemy of Serbia, allied itself with Austro-Hungarian empire which was friendly with Germany. After the Russian Revolution in 1917, Russia turned neutral.
The FirstWorld War was fought for four years from 1914to 1918. New techniques such a
s the trench warfare, air surveying, air boming and battle tanks were used. After the German submarines sunk the ship Lustiania, a large contingent of American army reached France. The Arabs revolted against the Turkish hegemony. Portugal, Rumania and Greece joined England. After Germany's defeat at Marne in 1918, Turkey, Austria and Bulgaria surrendered. Kaiser William II, the emperor of Germany was foreced to abdicate and Germany signed an armistice which ended the war.
THE RESULTS:
Millions of people including the civilians, died in the war, and many more wounded. Towns, cities, roads, dams, bridges, railways and factories were destroyed on an unprededented scale. Their reconstruction, providing jobs to the unemployed, providing food and rehabilitation to them became an impossible task. The great economic depression was also caused by the war. (1929)
The Treaty of Versailles imposed humiliating conditions on Germany. Turkey lost its hold on Armenia, which became a separate republic. In the Balkan region, Czechoslovakia, Lithuania, Yugoslavia and Hungary were created.
The loss of life, bloodshed and the destruction caused by the war created a desire for preventing wars and fostering peace. To fulfil this ardent desire, the League of Nations was established.
What events led to the outbreak of World War I?
Serbian Gavrilo Princip killed Austrian Archduke Ferdinand and his wife; Germany (an ally of Austria-Hungary) declared war on Russia (an ally of Serbia); Germany attacked Belgium; Great Britain declared war on Germany
Why was Europe on the brink of war in 1914?
Ans: rising tensions as result of militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism
What events led to the outbreak of World War I?
Serbian Gavrilo Princip killed Austrian Archduke Ferdinand and his wife; Germany (an ally of Austria-Hungary) declared war on Russia (an ally of Serbia); Germany attacked Belgium; Great Britain declared war on Germany
Why was Europe on the brink of war in 1914?
Ans: rising tensions as result of militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism
OVERVIEW
•65 million combatants from 30 countries representing every continent
•29 million become casualties
•Naval battles around the world and land battles in Europe, Africa, and Asia
•Triple Alliance = Germany, Austria, Italy
•+Turkey + Bulgaria - Italy = Central Powers
•Entente Cordiale = Britain, France
•+ Russia + Italy + (later) US = Allied Powers
•Revolutionary technology, but evolutionary tactics
ROAD TO WAR
•Germany seeks new markets/prestige of colonies
•Massive arms race
•Multiple and extensive alliances
1914
•June 28, 1914 Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, is assassinated in Sarajevo
•July 28 Austria-Hungary declares war on Russia
•August 1 Germany declares war on Russia
•August 3 Germany declares war on France
•August 4 Great Britain declares war on Germany
•August 4 Germany invades neutral Belgium
•August 26-30 German army achieves its greatest victory of the war on the Eastern front at the Battle of Tannenberg
•September 5-10 First Battle of the Marne halts German invasion in France
•September 15 First trenches of the Western front are dug
1915
•January 19, 1915 First German Zeppelin air raid on England
•February 4 Germany declares a submarine blockade of Great Britain. Any boat approaching England is considered a legitimate target
•April 22-May 5 Second Battle of Ypres marks first use of chemical weapons
•April 25 Allies begin assault on Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey
•May 7 Sinking of the passenger ship Lusitania
•Killed 1200, 123 Americans
•May 23 Italy declares war on Austria-Hungary
•August 30 Germany responds to U.S. anger by ceasing to sink ships without warning
•December 28 Allies begin withdrawal of troops from Gallipoli
1916
•February 21 - December 18, 1916 The longest battle of the war, the Battle of Verdun, is fought to a draw with an estimated one million casualties
•July 1-November 18 The Battle of the Somme results in an estimated one million casualties and no breakthrough for the Allies
•December 31 Russian Rasputin, is murdered by relatives of the Tsar.
1917
•February 1, 1917 Germany again declares unrestricted submarine warfare
•April 6 The United States declares war on Germany
•July 6 T.E. Lawrence and the Arabs capture Aquaba
•July 16-November 10 Third Battles of Ypres, known as Passchendaele, results in minor gains, but still no breakthrough
•November 7 Bolshevik socialists, led by Lenin, overthrow Kerinsky government
•December 3 The new Russian government, represented by Leon Trotsky, signs an armistice with Germany
•December 9 British capture Jerusalem
1918
•January 8, 1918 President Woodrow Wilson declares his 14 points as the path to world peace
•March 21 Germans launch the first of five major offensives to win the war before American troops appear in the trenches
•April 25 British and Australian troops stop the German advance near Amiens
•May 23 German shells land on Paris
•August 8 Allied counteroffensives on the Somme push the German army back
•September 29 Allied troops break through the German fortifications at the Hindenberg line
•November 11 At eleven o'clock on the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, the war ends as Germany and Allies sign an Armistice
Schlieffen Plan
•Germans want to finish off French before Russia is ready to fight
•Germans believe French will immediately try to retake Alsace-Lorraine
•Original plan called for economy of force on the left while heavily weighting the right flank
• Von Moltke revised and distributed forces more evenly across the front
•Plan failed when Germans were held up by Belgians, then stopped by French and British at the Battle of the Marne
•Russians also mobilized more quickly than expected
TRENCH WARFARE
•Machine gun and artillery make it difficult to attack a trench
•Huge artillery preps make “No Man’s Land” virtually impassable
•Huge casualties for attackers
•Huge artillery preps make “No Man’s Land” virtually impassable
•Huge casualties for attackers
RUTHLESS TACTICS
-Chemical warfare made trench warfare more horrible
-Mustard/Blister agents deployed
-First used on French in 1915
QUESTION AND ANSWERS
Q2. Why is the war fought between 1914 and 1918 called the First World War?
Ans. 1. It was fought on a worldwide scale and affected almost all the countries of the world.
2. Because of the unprecedented extent of its spread, impact and damage and its total nature, it is known as the First World War.
Q3. Give the meaning of Nationalism.
Ans. It refers to a sense of unity felt by the people ,who share a common history, language and culture.
Q4. How was aggressive nationalism a cause for the First World War?
Ans. 1. Aggressive nationalism meant love for one’s own country and hatred of the other countries.
2. Each nation thought about its own national interests and did not care for the interests of the other nations.
3. For example, France wanted to get back its provinces of Alsace and Lorraine from Germany.
4. Italy wanted to get back the territory of Trentino Trieste from Austria.
5. Balkan States like Serbia wanted that their fellow nationals (Slavs) who lived in other States should come together to form a greater Balkan State.
6. These countries developed expansionist policies in the name of nationalism.
7. Therefore, military strength became synonymous with national prestige and every country began to increase her military power.
Q5. What is imperialism ?
Ans. A system by which a powerful nation used to establish its control over another country, either by political pressure, infiltration and annexation or by outright wars.
Q6. Name the largest ship built by Germany in the year 1912.
Ans. Imperator.
Q7. Why did Germany dug the Kiel Canal?
Ans. The Germans dug the Kiel Canal deeper so that battleships could enter its waters.
Q8. How were the single Nation-States different from the Imperial States?
Ans. 1. Single Nation States – national identities were based on their common language and traditions. Eg: - France, Holland, Germany.
2. Imperial States – the population spoke different languages and had different cultural traditions. Eg:- The Austria –Hungarian Empire was ruled by the Hapsburg dynasty of Austria included and it included in its territory Hungarian, Serb, Bosnian and Croat population.
Q9. Name the signatory countries of the Triple Alliance (1882). State the rival block that was formed and the signatory countries of that bloc.
Ans. 1. Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy.
2. The rival bloc was the - Triple Entente: France, England, Russia and Japan joined later.
Q10. Name the heir to the throne of Austria – Hungary who was assassinated at Sarajevo.
Ans. Archduke Francis Ferdinand.
Q11. Name the Allied powers and the Central powers.
Ans. 1. Allied powers – Britain, France, Russia and their allies.
2. Central powers – Germany, Austria and their allies.
Q12. Why did the USA join the First World War?
Ans. 1. In 1915, the German U – boats had sunk a British ship Lusitania. Among the 1153 passengers killed, 128 were Americans.
2. The Americans were generally sympathetic to Britain, and this incident further
aroused anti – German feelings in the U.S.A.
3. The allied powers (Britain, France, Russia and their allies) had vast amounts of loans in the U.S.A to pay for the arms and other goods bought by them.
4. Therefore the U.S.A feared that if Germany won the war, she would become a serious rival to the U.S.A.
Q13(a) What is the Treaty of Versailles? When was it signed?
Ans 1. The Treaty of Versailles refers to the treaty signed between the Allies (England, France, Russia and Japan) and Germany by which the First World War was brought to an end.
2. The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28,1919 in Versailles ,a suburb of Paris.
Q13(b) Name the dignitaries who decided the terms of the Treaty.
Ans 1. Woodrow Wilson – President of the United States.
2. Lloyd George – Prime Minister of Britain.
3. George Clemenceau – Prime Minister of France.
Q14. Why was the League of Nations established?
Ans. 1. The League of Nations was created as a world organization of all independent states in 1920.
2. It was established to promote cooperation, to achieve peace and security and to guarantee the independence of all states.
Q15. What are the aims and objectives of the League of Nations?
Ans. 1. All the states of the world were prohibited from entering any secret treaties and alliances.
2. Member states were not supposed to maintain huge armies, warships and destructive armaments.
3. All states were to respect each other’s independence.
4. Mutual disputes between states were to be referred to the League of Nations for a peaceful settlement.
5. The Member-States were to take necessary action as directed by the League against any State which tried to disturb world peace and order.
6. The League of Nations was to promote cultural , Social and economic co-operation among member states.
Structures Questions
Q1. Various events led to the First World War. In this context, explain the following:
(a) Nationalism and Imperialism –
1. Nationalism refers to the sense of unity felt by the people, who share a common history, language and culture.
2. In the latter half of the 19th century, this feeling of unity turned into extreme pride, which made the people of many countries believe that their country is superior to other countries.
3. This led to the development of aggressive nationalism.
4. For Example, France wanted to get back the territory of Trentino Trieste from Austria and Balkan States like Serbia wanted that their fellow nationals (Slavs) who lived in other states should come together to form a greater Balkan states.
5. These countries developed expansionist policies in the name of nationalism.
6. Aggressive nationalism led to the rise of imperialism.
7. Many nations developed myths of their superiority over other people and felt that they must have colonies to add to their power and prestige.
8. British imperialism was focused on maintaining and expanding trade by exploiting the resources of its colonies.
9. Some other countries of the world like Germany, Italy, Russia and Japan also wanted to increase their sphere of influence and create their colonies in Asia and Africa.
10. Thus ,aggressive nationalism and fierce economic competition filled the atmosphere with fear, apprehension, mutual hatred and international tension.
(b) Race for Armaments-
1. Every major power began stockpiling armaments in the name of self-defense and preservation of peace.
2. In order to protect her colonies in Africa and a few islands in the Pacific, Germany began to build a powerful navy with a view to achieve parity with Britain.
3. By 1914, she had left Britain and France far behind in the production of iron and steel and in many other manufacturers.
4. One of its ship, the Imperator, built in 1912 was the largest in the world.
5. The Germans dug the Kiel Canal deeper so that the battleships could enter its waters.
6. This led to a fierce competition among the European countries and gave rise to the race for armaments.
(c) Division of Europe into two hostile groups-
1. There were two kinds of states in Europe inn the early 20th century.
2. Single nation states like France, Holland and Germany and imperial states like the Austrian –Hungarian empire and the Russian empire.
3. Germany entered into an alliance with Austria –Hungary. In 1882 Italy joined the alliance and it came to be known as the Triple Alliance.
4. Later France entered into a friendly relation with Russia and England. The three countries entered into the Triple Entente in 1907 to counter the Triple Alliance. Later Japan joined the Triple Entente.
5. Thus Europe was divided into two hostile camps.
Q2 How did the Sarajevo Crisis in 1914 lead to the First World War?
Ans
1. On the 28th of June, 1914, Archduke Francis Ferdinand, heir to the Austrian-Hungarian throne was assassinated at Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia by extreme Serbian nationalists called ‘Black Hand’ or ‘Union of Death’.
2. Austria served an ultimatum on Serbia on 23rd July making 11 demands.
3. Serbia accepted most of the demands except those that would have led to the loss of her sovereignty.
4. Austria declared war on Serbia on July 28, 1914.
Q3 There were several far reaching consequences as a result of the First World War.
In this context , answer the following:
(a) Terms of the Treaty of Versailles-
1. The Treaty of Versailles declared Germany guilty of aggression.
2. The German Army was restricted to a force of 1, 00, 000 soldiers and the Navy was limited to 15,000 men and 24 ships. The Air Force and submarines were banned.
3. The area of Rhine Valley was to be demilitarized and the German territory west of Rhine was to be occupied by the Allied troops for 15 years.
4. Germany lost Alsace Lorraine to France; Eupen-et-Malmedy to Belgium, Schleswig to Denmark. Danzig became a Free Port in the Polish territory.
5. Germany ceded parts of her pre-War territory to Denmark, Belgium, Poland, Czechoslovakia, and France.
6. The coal mines in the German area called Saar were ceded to France for 15 years and the area was to governed by the League of Nations.
7. Germany lost all her colonies to the victorious Allies – Britain, South Africa and Portugal.
8. German colonies in the Pacific and the areas under her control in China were given to Japan. China was aligned with the Allies during the War but her areas under German control were given away to Japan.
9. Germany was required to pay for the loss & damages suffered by the Allies during the war. The amount of reparation was fixed at 33 billion dollars. Germany had to cede (surrender) her merchant ships to the Allies as compensation. Germany had to supply huge quantities of coal to France, Italy & Belgium for ten years.
10. The Treaty affirmed the complete independence of Belgium, Poland, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia.
11. The Covenant of the League of Nations was added to the Treaty of Versailles.
(b) Territorial Rearrangements-
1. The United States surpassed Europe to emerge as a world power.
2. Three ruling dynasties were destroyed – the Romanov in Russia, the Hohezollern in Germany, the Hapsburg in Austria-Hungary.
3. Austria and Hungary, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia emerged as independent states.
4. Empires having different cultures were dissolved and independent states having distinct cultures emerged after the war – Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Yugoslavia.
5. Alsace -Lorraine was restored to France and Schelswig – Hostein was restored to Denmark.
(c) Formation of the League of Nations-
1. The horrors of war convinced the leaders of the world that there must be a mechanism to prevent war and promote international cooperation.
2. Wilson’s fourteen points included the creation of an international organization for the preservation of peace and to guarantee the independence of all states.
3. Thus the League of Nation was created as a world organization of all independent States in 1920
Q1. When did the First World War break out?
Ans. The First World War broke out in the year 1914.
Ans. The First World War broke out in the year 1914.
Q2. Why is the war fought between 1914 and 1918 called the First World War?
Ans. 1. It was fought on a worldwide scale and affected almost all the countries of the world.
2. Because of the unprecedented extent of its spread, impact and damage and its total nature, it is known as the First World War.
Q3. Give the meaning of Nationalism.
Ans. It refers to a sense of unity felt by the people ,who share a common history, language and culture.
Q4. How was aggressive nationalism a cause for the First World War?
Ans. 1. Aggressive nationalism meant love for one’s own country and hatred of the other countries.
2. Each nation thought about its own national interests and did not care for the interests of the other nations.
3. For example, France wanted to get back its provinces of Alsace and Lorraine from Germany.
4. Italy wanted to get back the territory of Trentino Trieste from Austria.
5. Balkan States like Serbia wanted that their fellow nationals (Slavs) who lived in other States should come together to form a greater Balkan State.
6. These countries developed expansionist policies in the name of nationalism.
7. Therefore, military strength became synonymous with national prestige and every country began to increase her military power.
Q5. What is imperialism ?
Ans. A system by which a powerful nation used to establish its control over another country, either by political pressure, infiltration and annexation or by outright wars.
Q6. Name the largest ship built by Germany in the year 1912.
Ans. Imperator.
Q7. Why did Germany dug the Kiel Canal?
Ans. The Germans dug the Kiel Canal deeper so that battleships could enter its waters.
Q8. How were the single Nation-States different from the Imperial States?
Ans. 1. Single Nation States – national identities were based on their common language and traditions. Eg: - France, Holland, Germany.
2. Imperial States – the population spoke different languages and had different cultural traditions. Eg:- The Austria –Hungarian Empire was ruled by the Hapsburg dynasty of Austria included and it included in its territory Hungarian, Serb, Bosnian and Croat population.
Q9. Name the signatory countries of the Triple Alliance (1882). State the rival block that was formed and the signatory countries of that bloc.
Ans. 1. Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy.
2. The rival bloc was the - Triple Entente: France, England, Russia and Japan joined later.
Q10. Name the heir to the throne of Austria – Hungary who was assassinated at Sarajevo.
Ans. Archduke Francis Ferdinand.
Q11. Name the Allied powers and the Central powers.
Ans. 1. Allied powers – Britain, France, Russia and their allies.
2. Central powers – Germany, Austria and their allies.
Q12. Why did the USA join the First World War?
Ans. 1. In 1915, the German U – boats had sunk a British ship Lusitania. Among the 1153 passengers killed, 128 were Americans.
2. The Americans were generally sympathetic to Britain, and this incident further
aroused anti – German feelings in the U.S.A.
3. The allied powers (Britain, France, Russia and their allies) had vast amounts of loans in the U.S.A to pay for the arms and other goods bought by them.
4. Therefore the U.S.A feared that if Germany won the war, she would become a serious rival to the U.S.A.
Q13(a) What is the Treaty of Versailles? When was it signed?
Ans 1. The Treaty of Versailles refers to the treaty signed between the Allies (England, France, Russia and Japan) and Germany by which the First World War was brought to an end.
2. The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28,1919 in Versailles ,a suburb of Paris.
Q13(b) Name the dignitaries who decided the terms of the Treaty.
Ans 1. Woodrow Wilson – President of the United States.
2. Lloyd George – Prime Minister of Britain.
3. George Clemenceau – Prime Minister of France.
Q14. Why was the League of Nations established?
Ans. 1. The League of Nations was created as a world organization of all independent states in 1920.
2. It was established to promote cooperation, to achieve peace and security and to guarantee the independence of all states.
Q15. What are the aims and objectives of the League of Nations?
Ans. 1. All the states of the world were prohibited from entering any secret treaties and alliances.
2. Member states were not supposed to maintain huge armies, warships and destructive armaments.
3. All states were to respect each other’s independence.
4. Mutual disputes between states were to be referred to the League of Nations for a peaceful settlement.
5. The Member-States were to take necessary action as directed by the League against any State which tried to disturb world peace and order.
6. The League of Nations was to promote cultural , Social and economic co-operation among member states.
Structures Questions
Q1. Various events led to the First World War. In this context, explain the following:
(a) Nationalism and Imperialism –
1. Nationalism refers to the sense of unity felt by the people, who share a common history, language and culture.
2. In the latter half of the 19th century, this feeling of unity turned into extreme pride, which made the people of many countries believe that their country is superior to other countries.
3. This led to the development of aggressive nationalism.
4. For Example, France wanted to get back the territory of Trentino Trieste from Austria and Balkan States like Serbia wanted that their fellow nationals (Slavs) who lived in other states should come together to form a greater Balkan states.
5. These countries developed expansionist policies in the name of nationalism.
6. Aggressive nationalism led to the rise of imperialism.
7. Many nations developed myths of their superiority over other people and felt that they must have colonies to add to their power and prestige.
8. British imperialism was focused on maintaining and expanding trade by exploiting the resources of its colonies.
9. Some other countries of the world like Germany, Italy, Russia and Japan also wanted to increase their sphere of influence and create their colonies in Asia and Africa.
10. Thus ,aggressive nationalism and fierce economic competition filled the atmosphere with fear, apprehension, mutual hatred and international tension.
(b) Race for Armaments-
1. Every major power began stockpiling armaments in the name of self-defense and preservation of peace.
2. In order to protect her colonies in Africa and a few islands in the Pacific, Germany began to build a powerful navy with a view to achieve parity with Britain.
3. By 1914, she had left Britain and France far behind in the production of iron and steel and in many other manufacturers.
4. One of its ship, the Imperator, built in 1912 was the largest in the world.
5. The Germans dug the Kiel Canal deeper so that the battleships could enter its waters.
6. This led to a fierce competition among the European countries and gave rise to the race for armaments.
(c) Division of Europe into two hostile groups-
1. There were two kinds of states in Europe inn the early 20th century.
2. Single nation states like France, Holland and Germany and imperial states like the Austrian –Hungarian empire and the Russian empire.
3. Germany entered into an alliance with Austria –Hungary. In 1882 Italy joined the alliance and it came to be known as the Triple Alliance.
4. Later France entered into a friendly relation with Russia and England. The three countries entered into the Triple Entente in 1907 to counter the Triple Alliance. Later Japan joined the Triple Entente.
5. Thus Europe was divided into two hostile camps.
Q2 How did the Sarajevo Crisis in 1914 lead to the First World War?
Ans
1. On the 28th of June, 1914, Archduke Francis Ferdinand, heir to the Austrian-Hungarian throne was assassinated at Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia by extreme Serbian nationalists called ‘Black Hand’ or ‘Union of Death’.
2. Austria served an ultimatum on Serbia on 23rd July making 11 demands.
3. Serbia accepted most of the demands except those that would have led to the loss of her sovereignty.
4. Austria declared war on Serbia on July 28, 1914.
Q3 There were several far reaching consequences as a result of the First World War.
In this context , answer the following:
(a) Terms of the Treaty of Versailles-
1. The Treaty of Versailles declared Germany guilty of aggression.
2. The German Army was restricted to a force of 1, 00, 000 soldiers and the Navy was limited to 15,000 men and 24 ships. The Air Force and submarines were banned.
3. The area of Rhine Valley was to be demilitarized and the German territory west of Rhine was to be occupied by the Allied troops for 15 years.
4. Germany lost Alsace Lorraine to France; Eupen-et-Malmedy to Belgium, Schleswig to Denmark. Danzig became a Free Port in the Polish territory.
5. Germany ceded parts of her pre-War territory to Denmark, Belgium, Poland, Czechoslovakia, and France.
6. The coal mines in the German area called Saar were ceded to France for 15 years and the area was to governed by the League of Nations.
7. Germany lost all her colonies to the victorious Allies – Britain, South Africa and Portugal.
8. German colonies in the Pacific and the areas under her control in China were given to Japan. China was aligned with the Allies during the War but her areas under German control were given away to Japan.
9. Germany was required to pay for the loss & damages suffered by the Allies during the war. The amount of reparation was fixed at 33 billion dollars. Germany had to cede (surrender) her merchant ships to the Allies as compensation. Germany had to supply huge quantities of coal to France, Italy & Belgium for ten years.
10. The Treaty affirmed the complete independence of Belgium, Poland, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia.
11. The Covenant of the League of Nations was added to the Treaty of Versailles.
(b) Territorial Rearrangements-
1. The United States surpassed Europe to emerge as a world power.
2. Three ruling dynasties were destroyed – the Romanov in Russia, the Hohezollern in Germany, the Hapsburg in Austria-Hungary.
3. Austria and Hungary, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia emerged as independent states.
4. Empires having different cultures were dissolved and independent states having distinct cultures emerged after the war – Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Yugoslavia.
5. Alsace -Lorraine was restored to France and Schelswig – Hostein was restored to Denmark.
(c) Formation of the League of Nations-
1. The horrors of war convinced the leaders of the world that there must be a mechanism to prevent war and promote international cooperation.
2. Wilson’s fourteen points included the creation of an international organization for the preservation of peace and to guarantee the independence of all states.
3. Thus the League of Nation was created as a world organization of all independent States in 1920
On June 28, 1914 Archduke Francis Ferdinand, the Crown Prince of Austria, and his wife were assassinated at Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia. The assassination was planned in Serbia by a secret society who wanted to achieve the union of all South Slavs under Serbia. Serbia was blamed for their assassination and Austria sent an ultimatum to Serbia. The Serbian refused to accept the ultimatum and it led to the beginning of the First World War
.
Q2) When and where was the Treaty of Versailles signed? Name the leaders who framed the treaty. The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919 in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles in France. The leaders who played an active role in framing this treaty were the British Prime Minister Lloyd George, the French Premier Clemenceau, the U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, and Italy’s Prime Minister Vittorio Orlando.
Q3) Mention three points under the Treaty of Versailles which affected Germany. Germany was humiliated by the Treaty of Versailles, 1919. (a) Her allies and she had to cede pre-war territories. She had to give up her colonial empire which was in turn, divided among the victors. (b) Even the productive Rhine Valley and the Saar mines were ceded to France. AlsaceLorraine, which had been captured by Germany in the Franco-Prussian War, was returned to France as well. (c) Germany had to give up Danzig, which became a free/independent port. (d) Germany had to demilitarize and limit her army and vessels (ships). Germany wasn’t allowed to keep any submarines.
Q4) State the cause of the failure of the League of Nations.
(a) The League of Nations was set up to maintain peace in the world and prevent wars. However, was unable to achieve her objective due to lack of military power to implement her decisions and to punish the defaulters. They did not have an international army ready to fight for peace. (b) The League of Nations could not take any appropriate action when Italy annexed Abyssinia, Japan annexed Manchuria, and Germany annexed Austria and Czechoslovakia. The member nations hence, lost faith in the league. (c) The two main super powers of the world, the United States of America and the Soviet Union, refused to be members of the League of Nations. Hence, the league lacked the necessary support from these two main countries.
this summer i was in Europe, i visited the epicenter of WW1 casualty , in France, met a generation of WW II era. the wound of war is same as of ours and " there" in era 1947 (partition) and 1940/45 WW II.
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