World War 1

The Rival Alliances in 1914

•Triple Entente: France, Britain, Russia.

•Triple Alliance: Germany, Austro-Hungary, Italy.

•Formed due to fear, suspicion, and territorial ambitions.

Motivations of the Alliances

•Germany: Feared encirclement by rivals.

•Austro-Hungary: Struggling to maintain a fragile empire.

•Italy: Sought territorial gains from France.

The Assassination in Sarajevo

Date: 28th June 1914.

Event: Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austro-Hungary assassinated.

Assassin: Gavrilo Princip, a 19-year-old Slav nationalist.

Aftermath of the Assassination

Austro-Hungary blames Serbia for the assassination.An ultimatum is sent to Serbia demanding humiliating concessions.Serbia rejects, leading to Austro-Hungary declaring war.

The Start of Military Actions

Austro-Hungarian forces begin shelling Belgrade within hours of the war declaration.

Russia’s Response

Tsar Nicholas II orders Russian army mobilization.

Reason: Honour-bound to defend Serbia, a fellow Slav nation.

Germany’s Position

Emperor Wilhelm II supports Austro-Hungary.

Belief: Conflict with Russia is inevitable, preferred sooner as Russian strength is growing.