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The Triple Alliance is Formed
Each member promised mutual support in the event of an attack by any other great powers, or for Germany and Italy, an attack by France alone. It lasted from 1882 until the start of World War I in 1914. -
The Triple Entente is Formed
The objective of the alliance was to encourage co-operation against the perceived threat of Germany. Three years later, Russia, who feared the growth in the German Army, joined Britain and France to form the Triple Entente. -
Austria-Hungary Takes Control of Bosnia
This event is also known as the Annexation crisis, or the First Balkan Crisis. The annexation and reactions to the annexation were contributing causes of World War I. -
Archduke Franz Ferdinand is Assassinated in Sarajevo
The assassin, 19-year-old Gavrilo Princip burned with the fire of Slavic nationalism. Independent Serbia provided the guns, ammunition and training that made the assassination possible. -
Austria-Hungary Declares War on Serbia
On July 28, 1914, one month to the day after Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife were killed by a Serbian nationalist in Sarajevo, Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia, effectively beginning the First World War. Austria-Hungary gets support from their ally, Germany. -
Germany Invaded Belgium
Another name for this is the "Rape of Belgium." The neutrality of Belgium had been guaranteed by the Treaty of London. -
A German U-Boat Sinks the Lusitania
The sinking of the Lusitania enraged Americans and hastened the United States' entrance into World War I. The German U-boat, U-20, suck the Lusitania. -
The First Battle of the Somme Begins
Took place during the First World War between 1 July and 18 November 1916 on both sides of the river Somme in France. The British Army was supported by Australia, New Zealand, Newfoundland, Canada, India and South Africa. -
The Zimmerman Note is Discovered
This was a note from the German Empire to Mexico to make war against the United States. In the process of sending the note, it was taken and decoded by the british intelligence. -
The United States Declares War on Germany
On April 2, 1917 President Wilson appeared before Congess and asked for a declaration of war against Germany. On April 4, Congress passed Wilson's request. Germany had a plot to ally with Mexico. This made Wilson want war against Germany even more.
