World War One - Unit 6 Lecture Notes

Overview of World War One

• World War I, also known as the Great War, was a global war originating in Europe that lasted from July 28, 1914, to November 11, 1918.
• The war involved many of the world's great powers and is considered one of the deadliest conflicts in world history.

Causes of World War One

• Militarism: Nations built up massive militaries to prepare for potential conflict.
• Alliances: Complex network of alliances developed to provide mutual defense.
• Imperialism: Competition for overseas empires increased tensions.
• Nationalism: Strong patriotic sentiments fueled aggressive policies.

Major Alliances

• Allied Powers: Initially composed of France, Russia, and the United Kingdom; later joined by Italy, the United States, and others.
• Central Powers: Led by Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria.

Key Events and Battles

• Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand: Immediate trigger of the war.
• Battle of the Marne: Significant early battle halting the German advance.
• Trench Warfare: Dominant form of warfare on the Western Front, characterized by long stalemates and heavy casualties.
• Battle of Verdun and the Somme: Among the largest and bloodiest battles.

Technological and Military Developments

• Introduction of tanks, airplanes, and chemical weapons.
• Development of new tactics to break the deadlock of trench warfare.

United States Involvement

• Entered the war in 1917, tipping the balance in favor of the Allies.
• Contributed by providing fresh troops and material resources.

Conclusion of the War

• Armistice signed on November 11, 1918, leading to the end of combat.
• Treaty of Versailles in 1919 officially ended the war, imposing harsh penalties on Germany.

Effects of World War One

• Political restructuring in Europe, leading to the rise of new nations.
• Economic devastation and the heavy cost of rebuilding.
• Set the stage for World War II due to unresolved issues and the punitive terms of the Treaty of Versailles.