The Armed Peace, Alliances & The Schlieffen Plan

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the alliances leading up to World War 1 and the Schlieffen Plan.

Allies

The countries that fought against the Central Powers in World War 1, including Britain, France, and Russia.

Central Powers

The alliance of Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria during World War 1.

Two-front war

A military strategy where a country faces battles on two different fronts, complicating resources and strategy.

Schlieffen Plan

A German military plan devised to quickly defeat France by invading through Belgium before turning to fight Russia.

Militarism

The belief in building up strong armed forces to prepare for war; a significant cause of World War 1.

Nationalism

A strong feeling of pride in and devotion to one's country, which spurred competition among European nations before World War 1.

Imperialism

The policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means, heightening tensions in Europe.

Assassination

The murder of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary, which served as the immediate trigger for World War 1.

Dual Alliance

The military alliance formed in 1879 between Germany and Austria-Hungary for mutual defense against Russia.

Triple Alliance

A military alliance formed in 1882 among Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, initially aimed at countering France.

Franco-Russian Alliance

An alliance established in 1894 between France and Russia as a counter to the Triple Alliance.

Entente Cordiale

A series of agreements in 1904 between Britain and France that resolved their colonial disputes without creating a formal military alliance.

Anglo-Russian Convention

An agreement in 1907 between Britain and Russia that settled colonial disputes in Asia and led to the formation of the Triple Entente.