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Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand
On this date, Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austria-Hungarian throne paid a visit to Sarajevo, Bosnia. Serbians in this location, after the recent annexation, dreamed of freedom, and took his visit - which coincided with a national holiday - as an insult. The nationalist group the Black Hand decided that his visit was the perfect opportunity to act out, so they killed him.
This event was important because it was the first spark to the blaze that World War I would become. -
the War Officially Begins
Within a week of the mobilization of Russia to defend its ally Serbia from Austria-Hungary, Germany invades Belgium and the war is officially on.
This event is important because it signalled the true start to the war. -
the First Tanks
For the first time ever, tanks are used in battle. The British whipped them out at Delville Wood. Although they were very useful for rough terrain and barbed wire, they were still clumbsy and were not yet the deciding factor that their designers thought they would be.
This event was important because tanks were a huge technological advancement at the time. -
the Battle of Verdun
The longest and one of the bloodiest battles of World War I begins. It was an attack on the French by Germany, who wanted to "bleed them white" by taking many forts in a narrow stretch of land. Germany didn't count on French being any kind of force to reckon with... which was their fatal flaw, and the reason behind the massive casualties.
This event was important because it was the longest battle in the War, and one of the bloodiest. -
Wilson Supports War
President Wilson outlines the case for going to war to Congress, despite how he previously claimed that America would not enter the war.
This event was important because it was key to America entering the war. -
America's In
After the President calls for action, Congress oblidges, and the United States enters World War I with a declaration against Germany. The U.S. sides with Britian and France.
This event was important because the Americans, who would ver a very important player, finally entered the War. -
Germany / Russia Peace
Germany and the new government of Russia come to an agreement. The agreement hands over large spans of land that were previously Ukranian to Germany and permits German troops to be shifted to the Western front, causing problems for France, Britian, and America.
This event was important because it allowed Germany a new foothold and advantage against the U.S., Britian, and France. -
Battle of Cantigny
For the first time, Americas take the offensive in the war. Though the battle isn't massive, it is a step, and America soon takes more and larger ones against the Germans. -
Wilhelm Abdicates
The German Kaiser abdicates, or leaves his position, leaving Germany without hope for success in the war.
This event was significant because it signified that Germany had no hope of winning the War. -
Treaty of Versailles
Signed in the Versailles Palace near Paris, France, this document signified that the war was truly over and that peace had come. It was signed by Germany and the Allies.
This event was important because the War was OFFICIALLY OVER.
