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Serbian terrorist assassinates future leader of Austro-Hungarian empire and his wife.
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After issuing an ultimatum threatening war, the Austrian government invades Serbia
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Germany, an ally of Austria, delcares war against Serbia's ally Russia
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After declaring war on France, Germany invades neutral Belgium as fastest route to Paris
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An ally of France, Great Britain joins the war.
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The United States must be neutral in fact, as well as in name, during these days that are to try men's souls. We must be impartial in thought, as well as action, must put a curb upon our sentiments, as well as upon every transaction that might be construed as a preference of one party to the struggle before another.
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Recognizing America's unprepared Army and Navy, the NSL called for greater defense expenditures in the event of American involvement in the Great War.
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The Lusitania, with 128 Americans on board, is sunk by German submarines. Wilson sends a strongly worded message to Germany, warning they will be held to "strict accountability."
