Start of World War I

Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria

Jun 28, 1914

Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated by a member of the Black Hand, a Serbian nationalist group. His assassination was due to a growing resentment in the Blakin nations against Austria Hungry because of their colonial control over the area.

Blank Check Sent to Austria- Hungary

Jul 5, 1914

Germany decided to send Serbia a promise of unconditional support for whatever action Austria-Hungary might take to punish Serbia while waiting for Serbia to respond to Austria's demands.

Ultimatum

Jul 23, 1914

As a response to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, Austria sent Serbia an ultimatum which required Serbia to end all terrorist organizations and would lead to Austria having more control over Serbia's government.

War is Declared

Jul 28, 1914

When Serbia refuses the demands of the ultimatum, Austria- Hungary officially declares war on Serbia. Within the month all major allies of each country would also declare war.

Invasion of Belgium

Period: Aug 3, 1914 to Oct 31, 1914

The first troops to mobilize were the Germans. They decided to cut through Belgium (a neutral country) in hopes to surprise attack France and quickly destroy them and therefore avoiding a two-front war. This plan failed miserably and Germany ended with a two-front war: France on the West and Russia on the East.

England Declares War on Germany

Aug 4, 1914

In response to the invasion of Belgium, England declared war on Germany since they had a treaty with Belgium which promised to protect Belgium's neutrality during times of war.