Why Wasn’t the War Over by Christmas? - 3 Flashcards
(12 cards)
What was the Schlieffen Plan?
Germany’s military strategy to quickly defeat France by invading through Belgium, then move east to fight Russia.
Why did Germany create the Schlieffen Plan?
To avoid fighting a war on two fronts at the same time — against France in the west and Russia in the east.
What did Germany hope to achieve with the Schlieffen Plan?
A fast, decisive victory over France before Russia could fully mobilize its army.
Why did the Schlieffen Plan fail?
Belgium resisted more than expected, Britain joined the war, the German army was exhausted, and the French and British slowed their advance at the Battle of the Marne.
What was the result of the failed Schlieffen Plan?
The war became a long stalemate on the Western Front with trench warfare.
What does the term stalemate mean?
A situation in which neither side can make progress or win.
Where was most of the fighting during WWI?
On the Western Front (France and Belgium) and Eastern Front (Russia).
What is the Western Front?
A line of trenches stretching from the English Channel to Switzerland where Germany faced France, Britain, and later the U.S.
What is the Eastern Front?
The area where Germany and Austria-Hungary fought Russia.
What was the Salonika Front?
A less active front in the Balkans where Allied forces helped Serbia.
What unexpected problems slowed the German advance in 1914?
Tough Belgian resistance, logistical issues, and faster-than-expected Russian mobilization.
What role did Paris taxis play in the war?
Over 600 French taxis transported soldiers to the front during the First Battle of the Marne.
