The 5 W’s and 1 H of WWI

What? World War I AKA The Great War AKA The War to End all Wars

Who? The Triple Alliance In 1882 Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy formed the Triple Alliance When WWI actually came, Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire (what we now call Turkey) fought together under this name. When Italy joined the war, they fought on the other side!

Versus

Who? – Side 2 The Allies In 1907 Great Britain, France, and Russia formed the Triple Entente. Once the war started, they were joined by Serbia, Belgium, Italy, Japan, and several other smaller countries. Their side became known as “The Allies”

Where? The battles took place in Europe, with the majority occurring in France, Belgium, and Germany.

When? War was first declared between Austria-Hungary and Serbia on August 28, 1914. Peace was declared at the 11th hour of the 11th month on the 11th day of 1918.

Why? – Just Remember M.A.I.N. M = Militarism -A nation’s policy to maintain strong armed forces. Great Britain and Germany raced to have the biggest navies. France, Germany, and Russia wanted to have the largest armies!

Why? – Just Remember M.A.I.N. A = Alliances – the formation of military agreements among nations Remember the Domino Effect from yesterday!

Why? – Just Remember M.A.I.N. I = Imperialism – one nation’s (AKA the “Mother Country”) government and/or economic control over another, usually smaller, weaker country. Think of our last unit!

Why? – Just Remember M.A.I.N. N = Nationalism-Extreme pride in one’s own country based on a shared history and customs. You believe your country is the best one in the world. If my country is wonderful, then everyone should be part of it!

How? – Several New Warfare Techniques and Weapons were Introduced Trench Warfare – Troops would dig trenches that would allow them to fight and live on the battlefield. While trenches had been used in the past, they had not been used as extensively as they were in WWI.

How? – Several New Warfare Techniques and Weapons were Introduced Machine guns – 90% of the soldiers killed in WWI were shot by machine guns.

How? – Several New Warfare Techniques and Weapons were Introduced Poison Gas – In 1915 Germany was the first country to use poison gas. The results of gassing were so horrific, it has not been used since.

How? – Several New Warfare Techniques and Weapons were Introduced Long Range Cannons- These cannons caused a great deal of death and destruction.

How? – Several New Warfare Techniques and Weapons were Introduced Airplanes – Some planes were used in combat, but they were also used for reconnaissance (observing/spying on your enemy) purposes.

How? – Several New Warfare Techniques and Weapons were Introduced Tanks – Tanks allowed troops to leave the trenches and advance against machine gun fire.