The Schlieffen Plan

What General is credited with the development of The Schlieffen Plan?

Field Marshal and General Count Alfred von Schlieffen, Chief of Staff of the German Army

When was The Schlieffen Plan developed?

In December of 1905

What country was The Schlieffen Plan directed at?

France

What country declared war on Germany as a direct result of the effectiveness of The Schlieffen Plan?

Great Britain

When did Great Britain declare war on Germany?

On August 4 of 1914

Define the general outline of The Schlieffen Plan:

1. a devastating attack on France via Belgium as soon as Russia had announced her intention to mobilize.

2. a holding operation on the Russian/German border to be carried out if necessary and if required.

3. Germany had 6 weeks to defeat France.

4. Germany would then use her modernized rail system to move troops from the French operation to the Russian front.

5. Russia would then be attacked and defeated.

Describe the weaknesses found within The Schlieffen Plan:

1. The actions of Russia determined when Germany would have to start her attack on France even if she was ready or not.

2. It assumed that Russia would need six weeks to mobilize.

3. It assumed that Germany would defeat France in less than six weeks.