World War One Study Guide

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to World War One.

Imperialism

Stronger countries taking advantage of weaker countries economically, politically, and militarily.

Militarism

The build-up of military forces, such as army and navy.

Nationalism

Pride in one's country, believing it is the best.

Alliances

Agreements between countries, typically for military support.

League of Nations

A world court established after WWI to resolve disputes between countries.

Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand

The murder of the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne by a member of the Black Hand terrorist group.

Black Hand

A terrorist group led by Gavrilo Princip responsible for the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.

Lusitania

A passenger ship sunk by a German submarine, resulting in over 1,200 deaths, including 128 US citizens.

Zimmerman Telegram

A secret communication from the German ambassador to Mexico proposing military alliance against the US.

Total War

The complete mobilization of a country's resources towards the war effort.

Trench Warfare

A type of combat in which soldiers fight from deep trenches, leading to stalemates and high casualties.

Treaty of Versailles

An unfair peace treaty that ended WWI, imposing heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany.

War Guilt Clause

A part of the Treaty of Versailles that placed full responsibility for the war on Germany.

Reparations

Monetary payments Germany was required to make for war damages.

Battle of the Somme

The deadliest battle of WWI, with 60,000 British casualties on the first day.

Conscription

Mandatory military service, also known as the draft.

Woodrow Wilson

US President who proposed the '14 Points' plan for a peaceful resolution to WWI and established the League of Nations.