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Archduke Franz Ferdinand of the Austro-Hungarian Empire is assassinated by Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip which causes Austria-Hungary to directly blame Serbia. -
One month after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, Austria Hungary declares war on the nation of Serbia which results in multiple new declarations of war between nations of different alliances. -
The six major nations of Europe separated into two different alliances, The Triple Alliance and The Triple Entente. These nations would begin all out war against each other utilizing the new weapons of war created in the turn of the century.
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The Russian Army would suffer a catastrophic loss at the Battle of Tannenberg. During this battle, Russia proves to the world that their Army is not only unprepared for war, but they stand almost no chance against any of the other nations in open combat.
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French forces stop the German invasion at the Battle of the Marne resulting in heavy casualties on both sides.Link text
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Soldiers from both sides report temporary ceasefires to observe the holiday. Certain instances report that soldiers from opposing sides would exchange Christmas greetings.
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During the Second Battle of Ypres, German soldiers kill and wound thousands of soldiers with the use of Chlorine Gas, the first time this occurs in history.
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Civilian Ship Lusitania is sunk by German Submarines in British Waters leading to the death of hundreds of civilians. Outraged by this, the world would call for Germany to cease submarine attacks on passenger ships. -
German Soldiers begin shelling the area outside the French city of Verdun. This would be the start of one of the bloodiest battles in human history. Link text
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In an effort to relieve pressure on French forces in Verdun, British, French and German forces fight over around 6 miles worth of land ending in over one million casualties. Link text -
For the first time in history, tanks are used on the battlefield by British forces during the Battle of the Somme. This would change the way wars were fought forever. -
British Intelligence intercepts a telegram from Germany's Foreign Minister wanting to align Germany with Mexico in exchange for territory in southwestern US.
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After discovery of the Zimmerman Telegram, the US decides to join the war believing that Germany posed a threat to the United States if they win the War in Europe. -
Russia signs a treaty with Germany ending their involvement in the war. Russian forces would suffer heavy casualties throughout the war leaving them with almost no other option.
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US Forces battle German Forces over 20 miles of ground between the Argonne Forest and Verdun achieving many victories against the Germany Army Link text
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Germany signs Armistice with the Allied Powers bringing a ceasefire to Europe.
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