World War 1 and Canada's Involvement

Flashcards covering the outbreak of World War 1, alliance systems in Europe, and Canada's domestic and military contributions during the war.

What event is considered the immediate "spark" that ignited World War 1?

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo.

Beyond the immediate trigger, which factor was NOT a major underlying cause that contributed to the outbreak of World War 1?

Global Pandemic.

How did Canada initially become involved in World War 1 in August 1914?

As a Dominion of the British Empire, Canada was automatically at war when Britain declared war.

What was the primary purpose of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF)?

To be Canada’s fighting force overseas in World War 1.

Why is the Battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917 particularly significant for Canada?

All four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought together and captured a key German position, becoming a symbol of Canadian nationhood.

What controversial powers did the Canadian government gain through the War Measures Act (1914) during World War 1?

The power to censor information and intern "enemy aliens" (individuals living in Canada but originally from the Central Powers/Triple Alliance enemy countries).

How did World War 1 significantly impact the role of women in Canada?

Women gained the right to vote federally for the first time as a direct result of their contributions.

What did the Conscription Crisis of 1917 in Canada primarily lead to?

Deep divisions, especially between French and English Canada.

Despite wanting to serve, what did many Black Canadian volunteers initially face?

Discrimination and rejection from recruiting stations.

What statement best describes the experience of Indigenous Peoples during World War 1 in Canada?

They had high enlistment rates and were valued for certain skills, but often faced discrimination and challenges accessing post-war benefits.

What was Russia considered to be prior to World War 1 regarding Slavic peoples?

It was considered the protector of Slavic peoples, including the Serbs.

How did Germany view Russian mobilization before the war?

They saw Russian mobilization as a threat and demanded that Russia stop.

What did Germany do when they found out that France was allied with Russia?

They activated the Schlieffen Plan—a strategy to quickly defeat France by invading through neutral Belgium, and then turn their attention to Russia.

What did the two-camp system mean in Europe before World War 1?

It meant a conflict between two nations could quickly draw in others.

Which countries originally formed the Triple Alliance (Central Powers), and what was Italy's subsequent course of action?

It was originally formed by Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy; Italy declared neutrality at the beginning of WW1, but then joined the Allies.

Which countries originally formed the Triple Entente (the Allies), and which nations joined later after WW1 started?

It was originally formed by France, Great Britain, and Russia, and was later joined by Italy, Japan, and the US after WW1 started.