World War 1 Flashcards
(33 cards)
What was the triple alliance
Italy joined the alliance of Germany and Austria-Hungary
What was the change in German foreign policy
Kaiser Wilhelm II forced Bismarck to resign
Why was it significant that Germany’s treaty with Russia lapsed in 1890
Russia responded by forming a defensive military alliance with France
Why did Britain form an alliance with France
Wilhelm began a tremendous shipbuilding program alarming Britain
What was the triple entente
Britain, Russia, and France
Why was the Balkans known as the powder keg of Europe
They had a long history of nationalist uprisings and ethnic clashes
Who did Austria annex
Bosnia and Herzegovina
What was the impact of Austria annexing Bosnia and Herzegovina
Tensions between Serbia and Austria rose
Who was archduke franz Ferdinand
The heir to the Austro-Hungary throne
Who was Gavrilo principe and the black hand
A secret society committed to ridding Bosnia of Austrian rule
What happened on June 28th 1914
Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated
What was Austria’s reaction to the assassination
They used it as an excuse to punish Serbia
How did the major powers end up in war
Austria-Hungary declared war against Serbia setting off a chain reaction within the alliance system
Who were the central powers
Germany, Austria-Hungary, Bulgaria, and the Ottoman Empire
Who were the allies
Great Britain, France, Russia, Japan, and Italy
What was the view on the war in the beginning
They thought it would be short
Explain the first battle of the Marne
The allies attacked Germany northeast of Paris in he valley of the Marne river. After 4 days, Germany retreated. This left the Schlieffen plan in ruins
What were new weapons used
Poison gas, machine guns, tanks, and submarines or German uboats
What was the situation in Russia by 1916
Russians war effort was near collapse
What did the main powers do to try and end the stalemate
Look for new alliances and open new battle fronts
What was the Gallipoli campaign
Tried to open supply lines to Russia but ended in failure
What was American involvement prior to 1917
Americans sold supplies to Britain even though they were neutral
Why did America favor the allies
They felt a bond with England and had stronger economic ties with the allies
What happened in Russia in 1917
A provisional government was established and Russia refused to fight
