Major Events WWI Timeline

Assassination of the archduke Franz Ferdinand

Jun 28, 1914

The archduke of Austria-Hungary was assassinated by Gavrilo Princip.

Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia

Jul 28, 1914

Shortly after the Assassination of the Archduke Austria declared war on Serbia. Event is significant because war is starting.

The United Kingdom declares war on Germany

Aug 4, 1914

Germany invades Belgium so the UK defends them. Event is significant because this is one of the lead-up wars.

Germany declares a "war zone" around Great Britain.

Feb 4, 1915

Germany sets up a submarine blockade even where neutral merchant vessels couldn't pass. Event is significant because GB won't get supplies.

The Battle of Gallipoli begins.

Apr 5, 1915

Intending to secure it, Russia's allies Britain and France launched a naval attack followed by an amphibious landing on the peninsula with the eventual aim of capturing the Ottoman capital of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). Event is significant because this brings the Ottoman Empire into the war.

Tsar Nicholas II takes personal control over Russia's armies

Sep 5, 1915

Russia's army is now controlled by someone different. Event is significant because Russia's military is controlled by someone completely different and will be harder to use.

The Battle of Verdun begins.

Feb 21, 1916

Bloodiest most deadly battle. Event significant because it was the longest war of WW1.

Germany sends the secret Zimmerman Telegram to Mexico

Jan 17, 1917

Germany tries to get Mexico to join the war on their side. Event significant because Mexico might enter the war.

Russia signs the Treaty of Brest Litovsk, which is a peace treaty between Russia and the Central Powers.

Mar 3, 1918

Russia ignss a peace treaty between them and the Central Powers. (Event significant because Russia leaves the war.

Treaty of Versailles

Jun 28, 1919

One of the peace treaties at the end of World War I. It ended the state of war between Germany and the Allied Powers.