Origins and Causes

World War I, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. The immediate catalyst was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary on June 28, 1914, by Gavrilo Princip, a Bosnian Serb nationalist. This event set off a chain reaction of alliances and treaties, leading to a full-scale war. Underlying causes included militarism, imperialism, nationalism, and a complex web of alliances among European powers.

Major Participants

The war saw two major coalitions:

• –Allied Powers: Primarily France, the United Kingdom, Russia, and later the United States.
• –Central Powers: Mainly Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria.

Key Battles and Events

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  Battle of Verdun: Fought from February 21 to December 18, 1916, it was one of the longest and deadliest battles, resulting in over 700,000 casualties. Source

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  Battle of the Somme: Beginning on July 1, 1916, this battle aimed to relieve pressure on French forces at Verdun. It became one of the bloodiest battles, with over a million casualties. Source

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  Russian Revolution: In 1917, internal unrest led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the rise of the Bolsheviks, who eventually withdrew Russia from the war. Source

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  U.S. Entry: The United States joined the Allies in April 1917, providing fresh troops and resources that were pivotal in the later stages of the war. Source

Conclusion and Aftermath

The war concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919. The treaty imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany. The aftermath saw the dissolution of empires, redrawing of national boundaries, and significant political changes, including the establishment of the League of Nations. Source

Casualties and Impact

World War I resulted in approximately 15 to 22 million deaths and about 23 million wounded military personnel, ranking it among the deadliest conflicts in human history. Source

Technological and Social Changes

The war saw significant advancements in military technology, including the use of tanks, aircraft, and chemical weapons. It also led to social changes, such as increased roles for women in the workforce and the eventual push for women's suffrage in various countries. Source

Legacy

The unresolved issues and harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles contributed to economic hardships and political instability, setting the stage for World War II. The war also led to significant cultural and artistic movements, reflecting the profound impact it had on societies worldwide.