WW1

Triple Entente

An alliance including Britain, France, and Russia during World War I.

Central Powers

An alliance consisting of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and initially Italy during World War I.

Archduke Franz Ferdinand

Heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne whose assassination sparked the outbreak of World War I.

Ultimatum

A final demand issued by Austria-Hungary to Serbia with unacceptable demands, leading to war.

Schlieffen Plan

Germany's military strategy to defeat France quickly before turning to fight Russia.

Trench Warfare

A type of combat where soldiers fight from deep trenches, leading to harsh living conditions.

Shell Shock

A psychological condition resulting from the trauma of warfare, now known as PTSD.

Battle of Ypres

A significant 1915 battle where Canadian troops faced chlorine gas attacks from Germans.

The Somme

A major battle from July to November 1916, noted for its high casualties and use of new technology.

Battle of Vimy

A decisive Canadian victory in 1917 that helped establish Canadian national identity.

Conscription

Mandatory enlistment in the military introduced in Canada during WWI due to troop shortages.

Enemy Aliens

Individuals in Canada from countries at war with Canada, often subjected to internment.

Halifax Explosion

A catastrophic explosion in 1917 caused by the collision of two ships in Halifax Harbour.

Treaty of Versailles

The peace treaty that ended WWI, imposing harsh penalties on Germany.

Wartime Elections Act

A 1917 law allowing certain women, such as relatives of soldiers, the right to vote in Canada.

Robert Borden

The Prime Minister of Canada during WWI who supported military enlistment.

Sam Hughes

Colonel and Canadian military leader responsible for raising forces during WWI.

Trench Foot

A medical condition resulting from prolonged exposure to wet and cold conditions in trenches.

Chlorine Gas

The first chemical weapon used in WWI during the Battle of Ypres.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A mental health condition triggered by traumatic events, prevalent among soldiers after war.

Infantry

The main body of ground troops that engaged in trench warfare during WWI.

Cannon Fodder

Soldiers considered expendable in battle, particularly noted during the mass casualties of the Somme.

Battle of Passchendaele

A 1917 battle known for its muddy conditions, high casualties, and controversial outcome.

War Measures Act

A Canadian law granting the government special powers during wartime.

Colonization

The process of establishing settlements in new territories, often associated with wartime expansion.

Nationalism

A strong identification with and pride in one's nation, contributing to tensions before WWI.

Militarism

The belief in building up armed forces to prepare for war, prevalent in pre-WWI Europe.

Imperialism

A policy where a country extends its power and dominance over other nations, a factor in WWI.

Entente

A French term for an understanding or agreement between parties, like the Triple Entente.

Mobilization

The process of assembling troops and supplies for war, as seen with Russia in 1914.

Casualty Rate

The measurement of military losses during conflict, highlighted by battles like the Somme.

Francis Pegahmagabow

A notable First Nations Canadian soldier and sniper during WWI known for his bravery.

Trench Rats

Rodents that thrived in trenches, contributing to unsanitary conditions and disease.

Fatalities

Deaths resulting from battle or military conflict, a significant concern in WWI.

Military Strategy

Planning and directing military operations, with plans like the Schlieffen Plan being crucial.

Aerial Warfare

Combat conducted by aircraft, first prominently utilized in WWI.

Home Front

The civilian sector that supports war efforts, from manufacturing to morale.

Veterans

Individuals who served in the military, particularly after returning from combat.