Western Civ - 19th century & World War I

How did the mood of Europe change from the beginning of the war to the end?

At the start, people were excited and patriotic, thinking the war would be quick. By the end, people were tired, sad, and desperate because of huge deaths and suffering.

Gallipoli---purpose & outcome

The Allies tried to take control of the Dardanelles to weaken the Ottoman Empire. It failed, and many soldiers died in a long, brutal battle.

• The Gallipoli Campaign was a battle in WWI

• The Allies (Britain, France, Australia, New Zealand) tried to take control of the area

• They wanted to open a sea route to help Russia

How did WWI trigger the Russian Revolution?

Russia was losing badly in WWI, people had no food, and the economy was collapsing. This anger led people to overthrow the government in 1917.

Who was Vladimir Lenin?

He was the leader of the Bolsheviks who took control of Russia during the Russian Revolution and created a communist government.

Zimmerman Note

A secret message from Germany to Mexico asking them to attack the U.S. This helped push the U.S. to enter WWI.

What reason did Wilson give for the U.S. joining the war?

To “make the world safe for democracy” and stop German attacks on ships and people.

How did the war come to an end?

Germany was weakened and ran out of resources. They signed an armistice (ceasefire) in 1918, ending the fighting.

Why is the Versailles Treaty a problem?

It punished Germany very harshly, forcing them to accept blame for WWI, pay huge reparations, and lose land. This created anger and helped lead to future conflict.

What were the highlights of Wilson’s 14 pts.?

They included: no secret treaties, freedom of the seas, free trade, self-determination for nations, and the creation of the League of Nations to keep peace.

How is Wilson different from George & Clemenceau?

Wilson wanted a fair and peaceful treaty and self-determination, while Lloyd George (Britain) and Clemenceau (France) wanted to punish Germany strongly.

What are the conditions of the peace treaty for?

• Germany: blamed for war, lost land, military limited, and had to pay reparations

• Austria-Hungary: broken into smaller countries

• Ottoman Empire (mandates): lost land, and territories were controlled by Britain and France as mandates

Who else is bitter about the treaty and why?

Many Germans felt humiliated and unfairly punished. Also, Italy was unhappy because it didn’t get all the land it was promised.

Why would World War I be considered one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century?

It caused millions of deaths, destroyed cities, created political chaos, and led directly to future conflicts like World War II.