world war 1 History Timeline and Biographies

1914

The Outbreak of World War 1

On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated in Sarajevo, triggering a series of events that led to the outbreak of World War 1. Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia on July 28, 1914, leading to a chain reaction of alliances being activated across Europe.

1914

The Schlieffen Plan and Invasion of Belgium

In August 1914, Germany implemented the Schlieffen Plan, invading Belgium to outflank French defenses. This violation of Belgian neutrality brought Britain into the war, declaring war on Germany on August 4, 1914, marking a significant escalation in World War 1.

1914

First Battle of the Marne

From September 6 to September 12, 1914, the First Battle of the Marne took place, where Allied forces halted the German advance into France. This battle marked the beginning of trench warfare on the Western Front, a defining characteristic of World War 1.

1915

The Use of Poison Gas

In April 1915, during the Second Battle of Ypres, Germany became the first to use poison gas as a weapon in World War 1, marking a new and horrifying chapter in warfare. This tactic led to widespread suffering and raised ethical questions about the conduct of war.

1916

The Battle of the Somme

The Battle of the Somme began on July 1, 1916, and lasted until November 18, 1916. It was one of the largest battles of World War 1, resulting in over one million casualties. The first day alone saw the British Army suffer its worst ever losses in a single day.

1916

The Battle of Verdun

Starting in February 1916 and lasting until December, the Battle of Verdun became a symbol of French national determination. It was one of the longest battles in World War 1, resulting in approximately 700,000 casualties, with neither side achieving a decisive victory.

1917

The United States Enters World War 1

On April 6, 1917, the United States declared war on Germany, joining the Allies. This decision was influenced by unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmermann Telegram, which revealed Germany's proposal to Mexico to join the war against the U.S.

1917

The Russian Revolution

In October 1917, the Bolshevik Revolution led to the overthrow of the Russian government and the eventual withdrawal of Russia from World War 1. This shift had significant implications for the Eastern Front and the balance of power in the war.

1918

The Hundred Days Offensive

Beginning in August 1918, the Hundred Days Offensive marked a series of successful Allied attacks against German forces. This campaign ultimately led to the collapse of the German front and was a crucial factor in the end of World War 1.

1918

Armistice Day: End of World War 1

On November 11, 1918, an armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany, effectively ending World War 1. The ceasefire came into effect at 11 AM, marking the end of four years of brutal conflict and paving the way for peace negotiations.

1919

The Treaty of Versailles

Signed on June 28, 1919, the Treaty of Versailles officially ended World War 1. The treaty imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany and redrew the map of Europe, leading to significant political changes and tensions that would contribute to World War 2.

1919

Formation of the League of Nations

Established in January 1920 as part of the Treaty of Versailles, the League of Nations aimed to promote peace and cooperation among countries in the aftermath of World War 1. However, it ultimately struggled to prevent future conflicts.

1920

The Impact of World War 1 on Society

The aftermath of World War 1 saw significant social changes, including shifts in gender roles as women entered the workforce in greater numbers. The war also led to widespread disillusionment and the questioning of traditional values across many societies.

1923

The Treaty of Lausanne

Signed on July 24, 1923, the Treaty of Lausanne recognized the boundaries of modern Turkey and replaced the Treaty of Sèvres, which had been imposed on the Ottoman Empire after World War 1. This treaty marked the end of the conflict over territories lost by the Ottoman Empire.

1939

Legacy of World War 1 and the Prelude to World War 2

The unresolved issues and punitive measures from the Treaty of Versailles contributed to economic hardship and political instability in Germany, setting the stage for the rise of Adolf Hitler and the outbreak of World War 2 in 1939. The legacy of World War 1 continues to be felt in contemporary geopolitics.