The First World War Overview

Flashcards covering key concepts and events of World War I.

What event marked the beginning of World War I?

The assassination of Austrian Archduke Francis Ferdinand on June 28, 1914.

What were the MAIN causes of World War I?

Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, and Nationalism.

What was the Schlieffen Plan?

Germany's military strategy to avoid a two-front war by quickly defeating France before turning to Russia.

How did nationalism contribute to the start of World War I?

Nationalism created tensions as countries sought military and economic dominance and desired territorial expansion.

What triggered the chain reaction of alliances in World War I?

Austria-Hungary's declaration of war on Serbia after the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand.

What was the role of submarine warfare in bringing the U.S. into WWI?

Unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany led to the sinking of the Lusitania and provocation of the U.S.

What was the impact of trench warfare during WWI?

Trench warfare led to a stalemate with high casualties, as both sides were entrenched and used modern weapons.

What was the Treaty of Versailles?

The peace treaty that ended WWI, which imposed harsh reparations and territorial losses on Germany.

Define chemical warfare as used in World War I.

The use of chemical agents like mustard gas and chlorine to incapacitate or kill enemy soldiers.

What was the significance of the League of Nations?

An organization formed post-WWI aimed at maintaining peace and preventing future conflicts.