War 2

Failure of the Schlieffen Plan

Germany's initial military strategy in WWI that aimed to quickly defeat France before turning to Russia, but failed due to logistical issues and unexpected resistance.

How Germany lost its morality

Germany's actions such as invading Belgium, Zeppelin air raids, sinking the Lusitania, and re-declaring unrestricted submarine warfare led to international condemnation and loss of support.

Defense of the Realm Act (DORA)

Enacted by Britain in 1914, it granted the government extensive powers to control civilian activities, production, and communication during the war.

British Naval Blockade

Implemented from 1915-1919, it aimed to cut off supplies to Germany, leading to food shortages, malnourishment, and internal unrest.

David Lloyd George

British Prime Minister during WWI who centralized the economy, enforced conscription, and mobilized resources effectively, contributing to the Allied victory.

Zimmermann Telegram

A secret German message intercepted by the British in 1917, proposing an alliance with Mexico against the US, which played a role in the US entering the war.

Treaty of Brest-Litovsk

Signed in 1918 between Russia and the Central Powers, resulting in significant territorial losses for Russia and impacting the balance of power in WWI.

Ludendorff's Spring Offensive

A major German offensive in 1918, taking advantage of Allied weaknesses, but ultimately failing due to logistical challenges and the arrival of American troops.

Battle of the Piave River

A WWI battle in 1918 where the Austro-Hungarian army suffered heavy losses, marking a turning point in favor of the Allies.

Allied Drive to Victory

In August 1918, the Allies launched a successful counterattack against German forces, involving troops from various nations and leading to the breakthrough of the Hindenburg line.

Kiel Mutiny

German Navy's planned suicide attack on the British Royal Navy in Oct 1918, thwarted by sailors' refusal to follow orders, leading to the formation of workers' and sailors' councils.

Events from Nov 1918-Aug 1919 in Germany

Kaiser Wilhelm II's abdication, rise of the Social Democratic Party, and the failed communist revolution attempt in Christmas 1918.

Spartacists

Radical socialist group led by Karl Liebknecht, declared the "Free Republic of Germany" in Nov 1918, involved in armed takeover of Berlin in Jan 1919.

Weimar Republic

Formed after the German Revolution, marked the rise of the Nazi Party in the long term, following the unstable political landscape of Spartacists vs. Freikorps.

Battle of Tannenberg

A significant battle in WWI where the Russian army suffered a massive defeat against the Germans, leading to the capture of over 92,000 Russian soldiers.

Brusilov Offensive

A successful Russian military campaign in June 1916 against the Austrians, causing Germany to redirect troops from the Western front to aid the Austrians against the Russians.

Treaty of Brest-Litovsk

Peace treaty signed by Russia in March 1918, ending its involvement in WWI, following the Second Russian Revolution and Bolshevik rise to power in October 1917.