First World War Vocabulary Flashcards

25 flashcards featuring key vocabulary terms related to the context and events of the First World War.

Industrial Revolution

A period of major industrial growth that transformed economic and social structures.

Colonialism/Imperialism

The practice of extending a country's influence through territorial expansion.

Rising Nationalism

An increase in national pride and competition among countries.

Arms Race

A competition between countries to achieve superior military capabilities.

Triple Alliance

A military alliance formed in 1882 between Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy.

Triple Entente

An alliance formed in 1907 between France, Britain, and Russia.

Franco-German Rivalry

The competition and hostility between France and Germany, centered around historical conflicts.

Encirclement Theory

Germany's fear of being surrounded by enemy nations.

Imperial Competition

The competition between nations for colonial territories.

Militarization

The process of building up military capabilities and weaponry.

Anglo-German Naval Rivalry

The competition for naval supremacy between Britain and Germany.

Moroccan Crises

Diplomatic tensions between Germany and France concerning control over Morocco.

Bosnian Crisis

The annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina by Austria-Hungary in 1908.

Balkan Wars

Conflicts in 1912-1913 involving Balkan states against the Ottoman Empire.

July Crisis

The diplomatic crisis following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.

Schlieffen Plan

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

Trench Warfare

A form of combat where opposing troops fight from trenches facing each other.

War of Attrition

A military strategy focused on wearing down the enemy through continuous losses.

Technological Developments

Advancements in technology that changed the dynamics of warfare.

Christmas Truce

A brief ceasefire during Christmas 1914 where soldiers on opposing sides met.

Psychological Impact

The mental strains and challenges faced by soldiers during and after combat.

Military Alliances

Agreements between countries to support each other, particularly in war scenarios.

Treaty of London (1839)

A treaty that guaranteed Belgium's neutrality and Britain's commitment to defend it.

Nationalism

A strong identification with and support for one's nation, often at the expense of other nations.

Casualties

The term used to describe military personnel who are killed or wounded in conflict.

Bismarck's Alliance Strategy

Germany's diplomatic efforts to prevent multi-front wars through alliances.

Rationing

The controlled distribution of scarce resources during wartime efforts.