-
The Franco-Prussian War
This was one of the events that lead to World War One. The ultimate outcome of this war was that France suffered a terrible defeat, and was forced to pay a tremendous debt to Prussia. This war lead to the upbringing of a powerful German Empire that threatened the balance of the European powers. -
Wilhelm II Ascends to the Throne
Now, at first glance, you may think this would be ever-so-insignificant. But you would be wrong! Wilhelm II acending to the throne in Germany brought bellicose (demonstrating willingness to fight) to the foreign policy, as well as the refused renewal of the Reinsurance Policy with Russia. In doing this, he caused the Triple Entente to form, through France and Russia being allies. -
Russo-Japanese War
The rivalry between the Russians and the Japanese over dispute of Manchuria and Korea was at its peak. Each side gave everything, but the Japanese came out on top. This was a terrible blow to the Russians, who lost practically all of their Baltic and Pacific fleet. It also incurred a political crisis within Russia, eventually leading to the Russian Revolution. This war also put an end to Russia's ambitions in the Far East. -
The Shot Heard 'Round The World...No. Not that One.
The shot heard around the world can refer to many events, the most popular of the two being the American Revolution and the shots that killed Archduke and Duchess Ferdinand. This assassination was carried out by a group called the 'Young Bosnia', and the assassin was assumed to be around 19 years of age. This is the most known event that lead to the First World War. -
July Ultimatum
On this fateful day, Austria-Hungary proposed an ultimatum to Serbia. But Vienna intentionally imposed impossible demans to Serbia to blame them for the 'orchestration' of the assassination. Just a couple days later, Austro-Hungrian troops invaded Serbia, which directly lead to the terrible World War 1. -
Germany Declares War on Multiple Countries
In the short span of four days, Germany had declared war on three countries: Russia, France and Belgium. Belgium actually had declared itself neutral, but that didn't stop Germany from declaring war against them. The First World War was starting, and it was starting rapidly. -
The Battle of The Frontiers
This war inficted heavy casulaties on the French. Over 27,000 soldiers were killed in a single day! To put this in perspective, that incredibly large stadium that Bernie Sanders presented in? 27,000 people. This is an incredibly large amount of people, but it is really not a lot compared to other battles (sadly). -
Battle of Verdun
This was the longest battle of the war; it lasted until around December 18th. There were an estimated 1 million casualties during that battle. This is incredibly depressing for me, just imagining how many people's families were torn apart. I try not to think about it too much. -
The Zimmerman Telegram
The Zimmerman Telegram urged Mexico to enter the World War, but it was discovered by the British. This was one of the driving forces that lead to America entering the First World War. Thankfully, Mexico didn't listen to Zimmerman, and didn't mobilze their troops at the U.S. Border. The Germans just caused themselves more trouble. -
The Peace Treaty of Versailles
Finally, the terrible war was over! However, everyone still needed a way to make that offical. So the Allies, with practically no German participation, created the Treaty of Versailles. The Allies basically forced the Germans to sign it, and many politicians got assassinated because of their alleged signing of the treaty.
