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Triple Alliance
The Triple Alliance was formed in 1882. This alliance was formed by Germany, Italy, ad Austria-Hungary. -
France and Russia
France and Russia formed a military alliance in 1894. -
Triple Entente
The Triple Entente was formed in 1907. This was created by France, Britain, and Russia. -
Serbian Problem
Serbia was supported by Russia when they chose to create a large, independent Slavic state in the Balkans. Austria-Hungary wanted to prevent that from happening. -
Assassination in Sarajevo
Archduke Francis Ferdinand was the heir to the throme of Austria-Hungary. The terrorist group, the Black Hand, wanted Bosnia to be free of Austria-Hungary and to become part of the Serbian kingdom. This group threw a bomb at the archduke's car, but it bounced off and exploded behind their car. However, Gavrilo Princip ended up shooting the archduke and his wife. -
Asurtia-Hungary Responds
With Germany's support, Austria sent an ultimatum to Serbia. They demanded such extreme things that Serbia had to reject them in order to preserve its sovereignty. -
Austria Declares War
Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. -
Russia Mobilizes
Czar Nicholas II ordered partial mobilization of the Russian army against Austria-Hungary. At this time, mobilization was considered an act of war. -
Full Mobilization
After figuring out that they could not partially mobilize, the czar ordered full mobilization of the Russian army. -
The Conflict Broadens
Germany declared war on Russia. -
More War
Germany declared war on France. At about the same time, Germany issued an ultimatum to Belgium demanding the right of German troops to pass through Belgian territory. However, Belgium was a neutral nation. -
Great Powers of Europe Are At War
Great Britain declared war on Germany officially for violating Belgian neutrality. At this point, all of the great powers in Europe were at war. -
Independence
Idependence was achieved in 1921 by the Irish.
