World War 1 Flashcards
(15 cards)
What were the main alliances during the First World War?
The Triple Alliance included Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, while the Triple Entente included Britain, France, and Russia.
How did the alliances contribute to the escalation of conflicts?
They ensured that any local conflict would quickly escalate into an international conflict as countries were dragged in to support their allies.
What was the Anglo-German naval race?
Britain was the greatest naval power, but Germany aimed to build up its navy, leading to competition in building Dreadnoughts.
How many Dreadnoughts did Britain and Germany build?
Britain built 29 Dreadnoughts, while Germany built 17.
What was the state of military forces in Europe by 1914?
Countries built up their armies to protect borders; Germany had the most powerful army with 1.5 million troops.
What caused rivalry and distrust between alliances?
The naval and arms races caused rivalry, tension, and distrust among the different alliances.
What was the colonial rivalry involving Germany?
The Kaiser wanted a great empire for Germany, which worried Britain and France, leading to tensions.
What were the Moroccan Crises?
The Kaiser challenged France for control of Morocco in the Moroccan Crisis of 1905 and the Agadir Crisis of 1911, but failed.
What was the impact of the Moroccan Crises on European powers?
The failures led to humiliation for the Kaiser and increased tension and distrust between European powers.
Who was assassinated on 28th June 1914?
Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the Austrian throne, was assassinated by Gavrilo Princip.
What was the consequence of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand?
Austria blamed Serbia for the assassination, using it as an excuse to declare war, triggering the rival alliances.
What were the conditions like in the trenches?
Trench life was monotonous; troops faced problems like lack of hygiene, cold food, and shell shock.
What was a common problem related to hygiene in the trenches?
Crowded conditions led to lice infestations and the presence of rotting bodies attracted rats.
What is trench foot?
A condition caused by standing in mud and water, leading to swollen, numb feet that could rot and require amputation.
What is shell shock?
A nervous disease caused by the noise from shelling and the constant fear of death.
