Chapter 33 - The Great War: War in Upheaval

What made the Archduke an unlikely figure to start a war?

He was cautious about military usage, meaning that he would always end up on the middle or losing side of conflicts.

Pick out some of the most inflammatory lines from the Zimmerman Note

"We intend to begin on the first of February unrestricted submarine warfare." "We made Mexico a proposal of alliance on the following basis: make war together, make peace together, generous financial support and an understanding on our part that mexico is to reconquer the lost territory in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona." Essentially inviting Japan to get in on the matter

Allies Significance

The alliance between Britain, France, and Russia. Attempted to resolve colonial disputes.

1st Marne location

northeastern France(30 miles out from Paris)

Verdun Combatants

France vs. Germany

What were American attitudes toward the war?

At first, anti-war and neutral, but as events occured, there was high morale, propaganda, and importance to our involvement.

Tannenberg Victor

Germany defeated Russia.

Somme Victor

Stalemate

2nd Marne Victor

Allied forces (French and American)

Somme Significance

-Britain (mainly British) & France joint effort against the German army, also known as the Somme Offensive. Lasted 4 months, really epitomized the futility of trench warfare. -The first day the British lost 57,000 men. By the end the death toll was around 1,500,000. Largest battle on the western front of WWI. One of the first battles. -Tanks used for the first time and air power significant -French had more experience (from Verdun), and employed artillery more effectively and lost far less men. -Largest WWI battle on the Western front. Intended to hasten a victory for the allies

The first five of the President Wilson's Fourteen Points included...

1. An end to secret treaties 2. Freedom of seas 3. Equal trade 4. Smaller national armies 5. Helping out/taking the side of colonized peoples in international courts

What were three reasons why the conflict escalated into a world war?

1. European governments brought animosities to their colonies 2. European nations recruited colonized people to their armies 3. Many actors had motives unrelated to the assassination, such as Japan, the U.S., and Ottoman Empire

How many member nations were in the League of Nations?

32 member nations

What caused the Armenian genocide?

A campaign of Armenian extermination - there were high tensions between Christian Armenians and Ottoman authorities. Demonstrations against non-Muslim discrimination led to the government believing that Armenians sought independence. Turkish nationalism was popular, leading to campaigns against Christian minorities and Armenians. This was known as the Armenian genocide - the Turkish government, however, refused to call it that.

Gallipoli Significance

A huge loss and embarrassment for the Allies, which ended up weakening many bonds. Turkish victory leads to Mustafa Kemal's prominence, who spearheads Turkish state-building. Weakening of ties with colonies (Australia, New Zealand, Canada) b/c of massive casualties An attempt to open a sea route from Britain to Constantinople Gave the impression that the Allies were militarily inept

Treaty of Brest-Litovsk Significance

A humiliating treaty signed between Russia and Germany that took Russia out of the war, allowing it to deal with internal issues. Germany was able to focus on the western front.

Mandate system Significance

A new system of dividing land of the Central Powers - ranked them by development of populations and fitness for self-government and gave administration to victorious powers of the Great War.

Spanish flu Significance

A post-war flu that killed 20 million - no cure ever found.

Vladimir Lenin Significance

A revolutionary marxist exiled in Switzerland who believed that the industrial working class needed a well-organized group of leaders. Was transported to Russia by Germany and led the Bolsheviks.

Vladimir Lenin

A revolutionary marxist who was exiled in Switzerland and stepped into an unstable situation. As a child, his father died and his brother was executed for plotting to assassinate the tsar - scarring him. He believed that the industrial working class was incapable of developing the revolutionary consciousness that would lead to political action. Believed the proletariat needed a group of well-organized and disciplined leaders to serve as a catalyst for socialism and revolution. German transported Russian activists (including Lenin) to Russia in hopes of them leading to Russia's withdrawal from the war. Lenin then led the Bolsheviks, calling for a transfer of legal authority over to the Soviets and withdrawal from the war.

Context: How was the Zimmerman Note intercepted and decoded?

A telegram sent from Germany to Mexico and intercepted by Great Britain. Deciphered by a British cartographer.

Total war

A war fought both on the battlefield and on the homefront. Fought by entire societies with economic and war support.

Total war Significance

A war fought both on the battlefield and on the homefront. Fought by entire societies with economic and war support.

War of attrition Significance

A war where each side gradually wears down the other. Remain standing when the other cannot.

War of attrition

A war where each side gradually wears down the other. Remain standing when the other cannot. A long war of many smaller scale events and battles, eventually wearing down each side. This particular war of attrition took great advantage of firepower to slaughter millions.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

A wartime hero during the nationalist revolt, Mustafa Kemal set out to drive out Allied forces and proclaimed the Republic of Turkey. Ruled over Turkey as Ataturk - "Father of the Turks". Modernized Turkey with new European standards and emphasis of economy and secularism. Although Turkey was theoretically a constitutional democracy, a dictatorship in actuality.

In addition to fighting off Allied forces, the Ottoman empire faced insurrection from the A) Arabs. B) Egyptians. C) Greeks. D) Serbs. E) Turks.

A) Arabs.

Compared to the western front, fighting on the eastern front was A) more fluid, as the Germans made inroads into Russia. B) a deadlock, with German and Austrian troops trapped for months in trenches. C) more encouraging for the Allies, especially on the Balkan peninsula. D) not as deadly, with far fewer casualties. E) over quickly.

A) more fluid, as the Germans made inroads into Russia.

What happened to the Ottoman Empire over the course of the war?

After Gallipoli, the Ottoman Empire lost Caucasus to Russia. After this incident, it was unable to prevent further invasions. Invaders gained support from Arabs revolting against the Turks, and there was high motivation to secure an independent Arab nation. This revolt was successful, but the British government did not keep the promise of Arab independence after the war.

Major Causes of the War

Alliances Nationalism Assassination of Franz Ferdinand Militarization Ottoman Empire's power vacuum Self-determination of ethnic groups Economic problems and weaknesses Bad leadership Industrialization and innovation Imperialism

Allies

Also known as the Triple Entente, the Allies were countries who were suspicious of the Central Powers. Britain, France, and Russia tried to resolve colonial disputes, but reciprocal obligations made the crisis difficult to contain. A shifting series of treatises ended in a military pact in 1914.

How is that the United States entrance into the war was the decisive turning point in defeating the Central Powers?

America joined during what was essentially a stalemate, and as Russia had recently dropped out of the war, America was a new, strong, and decisive part in bringing the war to the end.

League of Nations Significance

An organization of nations throughout the world who intended to maintain world peace, with major problems. It had no power to enforce its decisions and relied on collective security, meaning aggression to one state is aggression to all states and states had to help each other.

Describe the context leading to the atrocities committed against the Armenians.

Armenia was the first nation to declare Christianity as its official religion, and the Ottoman Empire had allowed it some degree of autonomy. However, after the Balkan Wars and other incidents, the Ottoman Empire had shrunk and grown increasingly wary of any potential opponents. As its opponents were Christian, it feared that the Armenians would side with them, leading to the atrocities against the Armenians.

What led to the abdication of the tsar?

Armies, mutinies, and food shortage led to strikes and action in Petrograd. Many were upset over shortages and the mounting deaths in the war. The police force could not suppress these, and there was mutiny of troops in the capital. Due to this, Tsar Nicholas II abdicated the throne, ending Russian monarchy and establishing a provisional government.

Why is it that we think of WWI as an American war? Is that accurate?

As we helped bring the war to an end, we generally view the war as an American one. Despite this, we were really only present for the end, and the rest of the war was truly a non-American endeavor.

At the Paris Peace Conference, A) the Allies agreed to let ethnic self-determination set the boundaries of the middle east. B) Britain and France were determined to strip Germany of military power. C) Russia was forced to cede much of Manchuria to Japan. D) Woodrow Wilson gained acceptance of his Fourteen Points. E) All these answers are correct.

B) Britain and France were determined to strip Germany of military power.

In World War I, "no man's land" was the A) battle line in eastern Europe and the Balkans. B) deadly territory between opposing trenches. C) killing field around Verdun. D) German route of invasion through Belgium. E) peninsula of Gallipoli.

B) deadly territory between opposing trenches.

The purpose of alliances such as the Triple Alliance and the Triple Entente was to A) create a mutually advantageous free trade association. B) provide mutual defense and support in case of attack. C) cooperatively share resources in African colonies. D) avoid war. E) All these answers are correct.

B) provide mutual defense and support in case of attack.

The purpose of the Twenty-One Demands was to A) demand control of German-held islands in the Pacific. B) reduce China to the status of a Japanese protectorate. C) demand that the British turn over control of Hong Kong. D) reduce Korea to the status of a Japanese protectorate. E) All these answers are correct.

B) reduce China to the status of a Japanese protectorate.

Although he called himself a Marxist, Lenin, unlike Marx, believed that the revolution A) would be led by rural peasants, not industrial workers. B) would be led by a small, highly-disciplined party acting on behalf of the workers. C) would be led by the intelligentsia acting on behalf of all of Russia's people. D) would not succeed until Russian workers were joined by workers all over the world. E) could not succeed if it alienated the church and the military.

B) would be led by a small, highly-disciplined party acting on behalf of the workers.

If you thought there was a good possibility of violence breaking out, how might that affect the way you make alliances?

Be strategic - value strength and someone with good resources. Someone more popular or powerful.

What was Germany's intent, as seen in the Zimmerman Note?

Begin unrestricted submarine warfare and keep America neutral. However, if America does not remain neutral, make war and peace with Mexico and have it reclaim Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Also apparently get Japan into the war.

Treaty of Brest-Litovsk

Bolsheviks ended Russian involvement in war through signing the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk with Germany. Gave Germany possession of much of Russia's land and ¼ of the pop. It may have been humiliating, but it gave Russia the ability to deal with internal issues, and Germany could focus on the western front. Lost one-third of Ukraine.

Why were the Bolsheviks able to overthrow the provisional government?

Bolsheviks, although small, gained power of Petrograd soviet. Workers disliked provisional government's insistence on continuing the war, inability to feed everyone, and refusal to take care of land reform. Spread with the word of "Peace, land, and bread". Lenin persuaded the Bolshevik party to organize insurrection and take the power of the All-Russian National Congress of Soviets. Armed forces seized power from provisional government in the name of all soviets - stormed Winter Palace and provisional government in a bloodless 10-day insurrection.

What effect did World War I have on the status of women? A) The demands of total war actually reduced opportunities for women. B) Women engaged in combat for the first time. C) Women in many countries received the vote in the years after the war. D) Women gained new economic status that continued long after the war. E) All these answers are correct.

C) Women in many countries received the vote in the years after the war.

Dreadnoughts were designed primarily to A) be quick and agile and slip through an enemy blockade. B) spy on one's enemies. C) protect merchant shipping and conduct high-seas battles. D) launch underwater attacks with unmanned torpedoes. E) All these answers are correct.

C) protect merchant shipping and conduct high-seas battles.

Tsar Nicholas II was forced to abdicate when A) Bolsheviks stormed the Winter Palace. B) an assassination attempt revealed that his family was in danger. C) troops garrisoned in the capital mutinied. D) German forces seized the Ukraine. E) All these answers are correct.

C) troops garrisoned in the capital mutinied.

Aside from the high soldier casualties, how did civilians fare in this war?

Civilians became targets of warfare. Air warfare was used on towns, and naval blockades were sent to starve townsfolk. British blockade on Germany was estimated to have killed a half-million people.

League of Nations

Created by the diplomats in Paris. First organization whose mission was maintenance of world peace - an integral part of peace treaties. 26 out of 42 members were non-European countries. Two major problems: had no power to enforce its decisions, and relied on collective security - aggression to one state is aggression to all states. States had to help each other. Another major problem was that at any given time, there was always one or more major power not in the League of Nations. The USA never joined.

By the end of the nineteenth century, nationalistic movements resulted in independent sovereignty for all of the following EXCEPT A) Bulgaria. B) Germany. C) Greece. D) Ireland. E) Italy.

D) Ireland.

"Ten days that shook the world" is a reference to the A) Paris settlement of the Great War B) debacle at Gallipoli C) German thrust toward Paris in August 1914 D) Russian revolution in November 1917. E) days in August leading up to the outbreak of the Great War.

D) Russian revolution in November 1917.

The German Schlieffen plan called for A) a quick invasion of Great Britain and destruction of the British navy. B) a quick invasion of Russia so that the war would only be fought on one front. C) a blockade of France to starve that country into submission. D) a swift knockout of France, combined with defensive action against Russia. E) simultaneous invasions of France, Britain, and Russia, with heavy reliance on the navy.

D) a swift knockout of France, combined with defensive action against Russia.

The provisional government lost the support of many Russians because it A) continued to use the police apparatus of the tsar. B) continued policies that discriminated against minorities. C) denied Russians the right to free speech and free press. D) promised to continue the war to victory. E) launched an all-out attack on the workers' soviets.

D) promised to continue the war to victory.

The battle of Gallipoli was significant in that A) it sounded the death-knell of the Ottoman empire. B) it demonstrated that the British navy was no match for German dreadnoughts. C) this decisive battle finally broke the stalemate on the western front. D) this British-directed debacle cost the lives of many Canadian, Australian, and New Zealander troops. E) it demonstrated that, after the arrival of American troops, the Allies would win the war.

D) this British-directed debacle cost the lives of many Canadian, Australian, and New Zealander troops.

Characteristics of New Weapons

Deadlier and devastating- can kill massive numbers of people. Quicker and more efficient Offensive invention leads to defensive one Still not perfect weapons- sometimes just as dangerous/harmful to the user as the enemy.

How were the Austrians ill-prepared for the visit?

Despite receiving warnings, they had little protection, and the car was even open. Even after one attack, they continued to go through their schedule for the day. Eventually, they had the plan to change their route... but forgot to tell their driver.

Trench Warfare Significance

Devastating warfare dependent on a system of staying in trenches and firing with machine guns. No-man's-land was the area in the middle where any charge would be a suicide mission.

What is the controversy of the Armenian Genocide; or how is it that there are two sides to the story?

Different sides have different numbers of how many lives were not, and those opposing calling it a genocide claim that a genocide is meant specifically to eliminate a certain group, while this was just a byproduct of a larger, more complicated war.

How was the war transformative in the lives of women?

Draft left many jobs open - taken by women who left the home for the workplace. Some women on battleline jobs - nurses, physicians, communications clerks. Dangerous work of making shells or working with TNT explosives. Many women found the new attitude resulting from the war to be liberating upper and middle class. Working class women were less happy - lack of fulfillment of promise and equal pay. Further liberation was found through voting rights and systems calling for equality after the war. Women were granted the vote in western nations after the war.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Significance

Drove the Allied forces out and established the Republic of Turkey. Theoretically a constitutional democracy, a dictatorship in actuality.

What was life in the trenches like?

Dug for protection from enemy fire Constant mud and rats Often hit by artillery shells Practically never slept Only left trenches to go "over top" into dangerous "no man's land" Trench foot & shell shock

The rivalry between Germany and Britain up to 1914 included A) an expensive naval race. B) competition for foreign markets. C) tariff wars. D) competition for colonies in east and southwest Africa. E) All these answers are correct.

E) All these answers are correct.

The key factor in the decision of the U.S. to enter World War I was A) its long-standing friendship with Great Britain. B) the United States' desire to acquire German colonies in the Pacific. C) American prejudice against German immigrants. D) the political ambition of Woodrow Wilson. E) Germany's resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare against the United States.

E) Germany's resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare against the United States.

Which of the following statements about the League of Nations is NOT true? A) It was conceived by Woodrow Wilson. B) It was rejected by the U.S. Congress. C) It was designed to solve international disputes through arbitration. D) It had no power to enforce its decisions. E) It was dominated by the countries of Europe.

E) It was dominated by the countries of Europe.

The assassination of Archduke Francis Ferdinand was the catalyst that started World War I because A) he had been a unifying force between Serbia and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. B) his death caused Russia to rush to the defense of Austria. C) his death caused Germany to rush to the defense of Serbia. D) his death ended plans for national self-determination within the Austro-Hungarian empire. E) his death brought to a head the tensions underlying the alliances in eastern and western Europe

E) his death brought to a head the tensions underlying the alliances in eastern and western Europe.

Which of the following was NOT a military technology used in World War I? A) machine guns B) armored tanks C) airplanes D) poisonous gas E) nuclear submarines

E) nuclear submarines

What was included in a Soldier's kit?

Each soldier carried more or less the same things in their packs: Rifle w/ bayonet and 170 rounds of ammo Gas mask Shovel & wire cutters Water bottle and food rations Extra clothing & medical supplies Portable cooking stove w/ fuel The pack w/o weapon weighed 60-70 lbs.

1st Marne Significance

Failure of Germany to complete the Schlieffen Plan forced them to fight on two-fronts, Allied victory in the west, started/before the stalemate, early use of radio communication and new military tech contributed to the victory, France was probably kept alive by the victory, Germany had 1.4 million soldiers in this battle The allies only had just over 1 million soldiers

Spanish flu

Flu killed 20,0000,000. Had an unknown origin, but was known as the Spanish flu due to the first documented outbreak occurring in Spain. Mainly hit young adult, and wartime traffic helped spread the sickness. Killed swiftly and mercilessly with no cure ever being found.

How did most Americans, particularly the U.S. Congress, react to Wilson's plan?

For the most part, Americans, particularly the U.S. Congress, rejected Wilson's plan

1st Marne victor

France and British Expeditionary forces won and forced Germany back which is when they started to delve more into trench warfare

Franz Ferdinand

Franz Ferdinand (Archduke of Austria) was visiting Sarajevo, Bosnia, a hotbed for Serbian nationalism. He had wanted autonomy of Serbian provinces, but was greatly ignored. There were failed attempts of assassination on his way to a reception. Shot by Gavrilo Princip on his way to visit the hospital to see those injured by earlier attempts. His wife, Sophie, was also shot. Princip was caught and died in prison. The assassination brought a head to tensions, leading to World War I.

In our individual lives, what sorts of alliances do we make with others? Why do we pick certain people with whom we make alliances?

Generally, friendship is the most common alliance within our daily lives. Allies are often formed based on shared interests or histories. Common goal or common enemies. Sometimes out of necessity. Provides a support system.

What were the unresolved issues making this essentially a "twenty year truce?"

German expansionist aims in Europe, Italian territorial designs in the Balkans, Japanese influence in China. It was a truce with power rivalries and intermittent violence, eventually leading to World War II.

Unrestricted submarine warfare

German submarine warfare helped sway American public opinion about going to war. Was the official reason for U.S. joining the war. U.S. ships were neutral and Germany was trying to strangle the British economy by blocking off ships. Germany sunk the passenger line Lusitania, killing 1,198 (including 128 U.S. citizens). However, it did have 4,200 cases of ammo and travelled through a war zone. U.S. was horrified and turned against Germany. British manipulation of info helped. America officially declared war on Germany on April 6th, 1917.

Is it fair to view Germany as the aggressor in this war?

Germany sent ultimatums to Russia and France, stating that Russia should immediately cease mobilization to defend Serbia and asking France what its intentions would be should Russia and Germany go to war. Both of these were ignored, and Germany declared war on Russia. France mobilized against Germany, and so Germany declared war on them, trying to get through Belgium. Britain gave an ultimatum to Germany so it would respect Belgian neutrality. Germany refused, and Britain declared war.

Unrestricted submarine warfare Significance

Germany sunk the Lusitania, killing 1,198 (including 128 U.S. citizens). This was the U.S.'s official reason for joining World War I, officially declaring war on Germany on April 6th, 1917.

In what sense might the Central Powers have viewed the Treaty of Versailles as harsh?

Germany was required to take full responsibility for the war - demanded a reduction in military power of the Central Powers. French insisted on army reduction, fully realized in the Treaty of Versailles. Denied Germany of navy and air force, limited German army to 100,000 troops. Also wanted the Central Powers to pay for the cost of the war and prohibited Germany and Austria from entering political union.

Schlieffen Plan

Germany's Schlieffen Plan was to knock out France and then defend against Russia. Knew that Russia couldn't arrive as fast as France. However, it was difficult to transport everything, and especially difficult to maintain peace with these plans. Eventually led to major military conflict.

What were the economic factors that contributed to the U.S. supporting the allies and eventually entering the war?

Huge business recession in the U.S. during the first two years of war. Depended on selling supplies for war - especially to Britain and the allies. Gave loans to the allies. U.S. decided that financially, joining the Allies and winning would be beneficial, as the Allied ability to repay loans depended on Allied victory. The U.S. joined the allies, now making them able to pay off Allied war debts.

What are some of the potential drawbacks of alliance?

If the alliance were to be broken, there could be many consequences as you had once trusted that person. Betrayal.

Stalemate Significance

In which neither side is able to properly advance on each other. No clear winner or loser - just stuck.

What role did militarization and war plans in general play in escalating tensions?

Inflexible military plans and timetables led to increasing strategies that fed into tensions. The French Plan XVII was to always be on the attack and use offensive maneuvers. The German Schlieffen Plan was to knock out France and defend against Russia. Knew that Russia couldn't arrive as fast as France. However, these strategies ended up leading to major military conflict.

What was the initial reaction across Europe after the assassination?

Initially, there was little interest in the event. Sure, it had made headlines, but nobody expected it to cause an all-out war. Perhaps a balkan conflict, but nothing more whatsoever.

Why was the Zimmerman Note "the final straw" that brought the U.S. into the war?

It was a plan that considered all potential American reactions and careful manipulation for Germany to get its way. Inviting our neighbor in an alliance to go against us

Why was the timing of his visit to Sarajevo especially fraught (problematic)?

It was around St. Vitus day, a holiday commemorating the Ottomans winning over the Serbs and establishing control over the Balkan peninsula. Being that tensions were high concerning that topic, many Serbs were intense during the period.

21 Demands

Japan exploited ally support to advance imperialism in China. Gave an ultimatum to China - China would essentially become a protectorate of Japan. China accepted some demands, but refused others. China leaked the bill to Britain and Britain defended China, preventing total capitulation.

21 Demands Significance

Japan's ultimatum to make China its protectorate. Was leaked to Britain, preventing total capitulation.

Judging by statistics found in "Tale of the Tape," who had the advantage going into the war?

Judging by sheer numbers, the allied powers would have an advantage during the first world war. Great Britain served as a vital ally with its naval fortitude and industrial power. Although Russia did not have enough weaponry, it had an impressive geographical advantage. It would be extremely difficult to try to attack Russia concerning its harsh winters. Due to its size, power, and resources, the alliance of the Allied Powers seems a clear bet.

What was the impact of the Spanish Flu on society?

Killed more men than war or weapons could. Life expectancy went down by 10 years, and there was a huge economic and psychological impact. Led to more study of immunology.

Schlieffen Plan Significance

Knock out France and then defend against Russia.

What were the new weapons of war and what were their effects?

Machine guns were vital in the war, as they killed many and caused many a stalemate at no-man's-land. However, new weapons were produced to get rid of this stalemate. Poisonous mustard gas was introduced by Germany and used by both sides, causing many deaths. Tanks were utilized to break down defensive trenches. Airplanes were developed and used in aerial dogfights - airplanes for reconnaissance. Submarines also proved military effectiveness.

How was the new nation of Turkey radically transformed?

Mustafa Kemal set out to defy Allied peace terms, drove them out, abolished sultanate, replaced with Republic of Turkey, and got it recognized in Treaty of Lausanne. 1923 - drove out Allied Forces, proclaimed Republic of Turkey. Modernization emphasizing economy and secularism. There were new secular freedoms, emancipation of women, western dress, and European law. Secular rule replaced Muslim authorities. Theoretically a constitutional democracy, a dictatorship in actuality.

What was the intention of the Alliance System, and how did it backfire?

National interests guided the search for allies, but also considered fulfilling treaties to be vital for self-preservation. Alliances determined how each country would go to war by coming to an ally's defense. However, this framework set up a chain reaction which would lead to global war. Two hostile camps: The Central Powers (Triple Alliance) and The Allies (Triple Entente)

Nationalism & Self-determination

Nationalism spread by the French Revolution and Napoleonic wars, leading to more nationalism. Self-determination was the right of people of different ethnic groups to form sovereign states. However, the concept was greatly ignored or opposed by dynastic powers.Some states managed to regain autonomy (Germany, Italy, and Belgians). There were considerable nationalistic tensions among the Ottomans, Habsburgs, and Russia.

Nationalism & Self-determination Significance

Nationalistic tensions were at an all-time high, and self-determination was the right of people of different ethnic groups to form sovereign states.

Was Russia included in the League of Nations?

No

In what way was Germany restricted?

No navy or airforce - standing army could only have 100,000 people

Verdun Location

Northern France (Verdun)

Somme location

Northern France; Pas-de-Calais and Somme. Near the Somme Rivere -Western Front

Tannenberg Location

Olsztyn, Poland Dzialdowo, Poland

Does it matter that the Armenian Genocide event is acknowledged as a genocide today? Explain.

On both sides, it matters whether it is acknowledged. For the Armenians, it means a recognition of their struggle and darkest time. For Turkey, it means a stain on the country. It also matters for allies, as allies of Turkey do not wish to damage relations.

2nd Marne Location

On the Marne River, in the Aisne-Marne Sector, 75 Miles Northeast of Paris In a Triangular Area Bounded by Chateau-Thierry, Soissons and Reims

What were the economic repercussions of the war?

On the home front, the economy was mobilized to the war effort. Belligerents limited individual freedoms, and society's control was handed to military leaders. Militarized civilian war production by subordinating private enterprises to government control. War demanded raw materials and manufactured goods, so entire industries were reorganized and there was tight control of the economy. Wage and price controls were imposed, and military drafting was extended, meaning that there were many jobs open. This was where women came in.

Tannenberg Significance

One of the first major battles of World War I Victory proved that Germans could defeat a larger army with superior tactics and training the commanding general of the second russian army committed suicide after the huge defeat germans intercepted the russian generals' uncoded messages to each other and found out what their battle plans were

Gallipoli Location

Ottoman Empire Turkey Gallipoli, Dardanelles Strait (before the technical battle)

Why were the Balkans a hotbed of nationalist tensions ripe for conflict?

Ottoman Empire had controlled the Balkan peninsula for an incredibly long time, and once the Ottoman Empire fell, the different regions of the peninsula had two wars over the Ottoman Empire's former European territories. Especially tricky due to the fact that balance of power had to be considered. The Allies and the Central Powers began to pick sides, which also caused great tensions.

What was a major formerly Russian area that became an independent nation?

Poland

What made Gavrilo Princip the unlikely assassin?

Princip was young, and the previous two attempts had failed. He only had the opportunity as the car was attempting to go in reverse very slowly, acting as an easy target for him.

Balkan Wars Significance

Push for independence by the Balkan territories of the declining Ottoman Empire.

Balkan Wars

Push for independence by the Balkan territories of the declining Ottoman Empire. The states of the Balkan peninsula (Bulgaria, Greece, Montenegro, Serbia, and Romania) had two wars of European territories in the Ottoman empire. Greatly strained diplomatic relationships.

Propaganda

Restricted civil liberties, censored bad news, and vilified the enemy. Those who questioned country's war tactics were deemed traitors. Completely depicted opposition as monsters - dehumanization. Ironically, disbelief towards wartime propaganda led to inability to believe actual abominations that were perpetrated.

Verdun Significance

Resulted in heavy losses on both sides Was the longest engagement of ww1st single battle of World War One believed major defeat on the Western Front would push the Allies to open peace negotiations 143,000 German dead out of 337,000 casualties, to France's 162,440 out of 377,231—would come to symbolize, more than that of any other battle, the bloody nature of trench warfare on the Western Front. More of a victory of the Allies against the Central Powers

Describe the power struggle that ensued in Russia after the abdication of the tsar.

Revolution spread from Petrograd, and two new agencies were in power: provisional government and the Petrograd Soviet of Workers' and Soldiers' Deputies. There was a power struggle between these two institutions. Provisional government had many liberal reforms, including repealing limitations on freedom of press, speech, and association. However, it failed to satisfy those who wanted end of war and land reform. Petrograds, however, pledged for peace, therefore gaining more support.

2nd Marne Significance

Russia is out, Germans see opportunity to attack Last major German offensive on the Western Front Attempt to draw Allied forces away from Belgium Defeat allowed Allied forces to advance and eventually led to Armistice ~100 days later Essentially, it marked the turning of tide in WW1

Trench Warfare

Stalemate on western and southern fronts reflecting defense-related technologies. Barbed wire decorated the "no-man's -land" between opposing trenches. Charges across no-man's land were suicide missions, thanks to the power of the machine gun. New weapons developed to reintroduce movement to no-man's-land and break the stalemate.

Points 6-13 of the 14 points pertained to...

Suggestions for changing borders and creating new countries/states

What are some of the potential benefits of these alliances?

Support and help in times of need, provides necessities and important resources. Strength in numbers, sometimes being able to mooch off others, popularity

What was the 14th point?

The 14th point called for an association or organization of nations that would protect each other, as well as big and small nations. This body would be called the League of Nations

Franz Ferdinand Significance

The Archduke of Austria. His assassination was the catalyst for World War I.

What was appealing and unappealing about Wilson's Fourteen Points?

The Fourteen Points were Wilson's proposal for a peace settlement one year before the Paris Peace Conference. He expected the Central Powers to use the Fourteen Points as the basis for armistice, and for the Allies to use it as a foundation for future treaties. Some of the points include absolute freedom of sea navigation, removal of trade barriers and establishment of free trade, reduction in national armaments, giving equal weight to colonial government and population in colonial disputes, and "a general association of nations". This idealism gave Wilson a moral leadership position among the Allies, but many Allies opposed it due to previous notions for division of the Central Powers. The Central Powers felt betrayed by not getting the Fourteen Points.

Why did the League of Nations ultimately fail?

The League of Nations had two major problems: it had no power to enforce its decisions, and it relied on collective security. Aggression to one state is aggression to all states, meaning states had to help each other out. Along with that, at any given time, there was always a major power not in it. Also, the United States never joined.

How did the sinking of the Lusitania affect the U.S. position regarding the war?

The Lusitania was a passenger line, and due to German submarines, 1,198 people were killed, including 128 U.S. citizens. However, it did have 4,200 cases of ammo and travelled through a warzone. The U.S. was horrified by the deaths and turned against Germany. British manipulation of info helped. Due to all of this, the U.S. declared war on Germany on April 6th, 1917.

What were some of the long-term consequences for Europe after the war?

There was a decline in power and diminished economy. High inflation and huge debts were overcome, lost overseas prestige and foreign markets, U.S. swapped roles with Europe, now being the debtor nation, and had a weakened grip on colonies.

Mandate system

The United States was against using the old notion of direct colonization - European powers came up with the enterprising idea of trusteeship. Territories of Central Powers were considered unable to be independent under conditions of the modern world and must be trusted by nations that could handle to responsibility - the victorious powers of the Great War. There were three classes of mandates based on the development of populations and fitness for self-government. Allies liked the system, Central Powers detested it. Allies divided up Germany's African colonies and Ottoman territories in Southwest Asia. Arabs were outraged by betrayal of British allies.

Propaganda Significance

The action of using the media to restrict civil liberty, censor bad news, and vilify the enemy, raising morale for the army.

Central Powers Significance

The alliance that started between Germany and Austro-Hungary, eventually adding Italy. Italy's war against the Ottoman Empire eventually strained this alliance, however.

In what sense would this smaller conflict caused by Ferdinand's assassination balloon into a "Great War?"

The assassination of Franz Ferdinand brought a head to tensions, especially concerning the Austro-Hungarian empire vs. Serbia. Other countries took sides, and their own issues also erupted. Foreign policies and alliances anticipated war as well, forming the Allies and the Central Powers.

Describe a gas mask

The canister gas mask was developed to protect the soldier from the use of chlorine gas and tearing agents. This mask was not effective in filtering out the more deadly phosgene and diphosgene gases. No mask could offer protection from the blistering mustard gas, which attacked all exposed flesh.

What was the main goal of the 14 points?

The main goal was self-determination, which meant allowing people to decide for themselves what government would rule them, and preventing foreign governments from ruling.

Bolsheviks Significance

The radical wing of Russian social Democratic Party led by Lenin Gained power of the Petrograd soviet through insurrection.

Bolsheviks

The radical wing of Russian social Democratic Party led by Lenin. Called for the transfer of legal authority over to the soviets and withdrawal from the war. Although small, the party gained power of the Petrograd soviet through insurrection.

What event catapulted America into the war?

The sinking of the Lusitania and interception of the Zimmerman Letter.

Stalemate

The stalemate on the western and southern fronts reflected new technologies that favored defensive tactics over offensive ones. Being that charging across the no-man's land was a suicide mission, battle lines were stationary, and each side of the trench was heavily defended, a stalemate was in place. Technologies were quickly developed so as to end the stalemate.

Why was the Paris peace settlement fraught from the start?

The victorious powers met in Paris to settle terms for defeated nations - there were 27 nations with conflicting aims participating. However, this settlement has a disappointing legacy - it was dominated by Georges Clemenceau, Lloyd George, and Woodrow Wilson (France, Britain, and U.S. respectively). The Central Powers had no voice, and the Allies threatened more war if terms were not accepted. The Soviet Union was not invited, and they were in a rush as Britain still blockaded Germany.

Describe the toll the war had taken.

There was an estimated 15 million dead, with 20 million wounded. After the war, however, things got worse, as the Spanish flu claimed 20 million more lives, likely spreading due to wartime traffic.

How did economics play a role in fueling conflict?

There was great economic competition between Great Britain vs. Germany. The naval race happened when German development threatened British economic predominance, angering Britain. Both sides built dreadnaughts in order to try to top each other. Colonially, Germany was unified in 1871, so it was late to the colonial race. It struck up great tensions trying to search for colonies to boost the economy, especially with Britain and France, being that those two countries had already colonized most areas.

How did things play out in the first couple of years on the Eastern Front?

There were more fluid battle-lines in the eastern front. Russia invaded Prussia in 1915, soon driven out. Austrian-German forces overran Serbia, Albania, and Romania. Russian counterattacks in 1916-1917 collapsed in a sea of casualties. Numerous Russian defeats undermined the tzar, supporting revolutionary movements.

Where did the Spanish Flu begin?

Thought to have been originated in China, but nevertheless, the largest first recording of it was in Spain, thus being named the "Spanish Flu."

Central Powers

Triple alliance, known as the Central powers. Grew from alliance between leaders of Germany and Austro-Hungary - the dual alliance. The dual alliance ensured protection from Russian attack and neutrality to others. Italy joined out of fear of France, forming the triple alliance. However, Italy had a rivalry with Austro-Hungary in the Balkans and declared war on the Ottoman Empire. This strained the Triple Alliance, as Germany was loosely associated with Germany.

Just how "neutral" was America really before we officially joined the war?

Truly, we were not exactly neutral. We would ship out supplies, and most of the supplies ended up going to the Allies.

What did the Ottoman Empire become?

Turkey

Gallipoli Victor

Turkey's greatest victory of WWI

How did Lenin's communist views contrast with those of Marx?

Unlike Marx, Lenin believed the industrial working class was incapable of developing the revolutionary consciousness that would lead to political action. Believed proletariat needed a group of leaders to serve as a catalyst for socialism and revolution.

Western Front vs. Eastern Front Significance

Virtually stationary battle lines in the west, fluid battle lines in the east. More trench warfare on the west, swifter battles on the Eastern front.

Western Front vs. Eastern Front

WESTERN: trenches assisted the war of attrition with virtually stationary battle lines. Trenches from English Channel to Switzerland. Italy had left the Triple Alliance and switched to the allies, who had promised to cede Austro-Hungarian territories to Italy after victory. Although Italy had faced many disastrous losses. EASTERN: Much more fluid battle-lines in the eastern front. Russia invaded Prussia and was soon driven out in 1915. Austrian-German forces overran Serbia, Albania, and Romania. Russian counter attacks in 1916-1917 collapsed in a sea of casualties.

Who was war guilt placed upon? What did they have to pay?

War guilt was placed entirely upon Germany, who had to pay reparations over 30 years.

What were some of the deteriorating effects the war was having at home and in the ranks?

War took a serious toll. There was an unsuccessful Great Easter Rebellion in which Irish nationalists attempted to overthrow British rule. Central powers suffered from food shortages form British blockade. Food riots and strikes took place. Many mutinies occured within armies. In 1917, there was a mutiny of 50,000 French soldiers. France had censored this so much that people did not know until after the war. There was a failed German assault, resulting in Allies pushing Germany back thanks to American help. Central powers collapsed one after another, accepting armistices in November 1918. Bulgaria capitulated invading allies, there was an Ottoman armistice, Austria-Hungary surrendered, and there was a German armistice.

What were the expectations at the start of the war and how were these quickly dashed?

War was greeted with great enthusiasm on both sides - expected to be brief. However, being a war of attrition, it really wasn't. Stalemates were long and trench warfare was gruesome. No-man's-land was littered with the dead - a grim reality of trench warfare. Bloodletting referred to horrific battles with devastating costs. Civilians became targets of warfare - air warfare and naval blockades sent to starve the innocent.

What made the principal of self-determination so difficult to carry out?

Wilson believed that self-determination was the key to international peace and cooperation for ethnic nationalities. It was the basis for redrawing maps of Eastern Europe - succeeded for Poland, Czechoslovakia, and Yugoslavia. Triumphant in areas formerly under Austro-Hungarian and Russian rule. However, for areas such as Austria and Hungary, diplomats drew their own lines, as previous borders caused language and cultural difficulties. It was difficult to draw lines - German minorities in Poland and Czechoslovakia. Yugoslavia was a land of Southern slaves, uneasy mix of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes.

Gallipoli

Winston Churchill suggested that the Allies strike against the Ottomans, as it was a weaker ally of the Central Powers and it would hurt Germany. Tried to open the Dardanelles Strait, but took damage and withdrew. Disastrous campaign on the Gallipoli peninsula - quickly pinned down by Turkish defenders. 250,000 casualties on each side. Shifted to trench warfare, resulting in a stalemate. Allies took 9 months to admit defeat. There were long term consequences - casualties and weakened ties between Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Britain.

Why did America join the war so late?

Woodrow Wilson had, for the most part, wished for the USA to remain neutral throughout the war, and as there were many immigrants from countries partaking in the war, it would be difficult to choose a side and pro-neutrality was a popular opinion. Eventually, however, after the sinking of the Lusitania and the Zimmerman Letter, America realized that it had to go against Germany.

What made the Spanish flu so virulent (particularly strong)?

Would fill your lungs with fluid so that you couldn't breathe.

Is the way individuals act similar or different to the way states act in international affairs? Explain.

Yes. It's a good way to simplify international affairs