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Archduke Ferdinand
Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated -
Mobilization of Russia
Russian troops mobilized to aid Serbians in fight with Austria-Hungary. Eventually leads to mobilization of the rest of the European countries. -
World War I Begins
The first World War began with Germany's invasion of Belgium. -
Marne
Germans advance toward Paris, France and encounter French troops. Fighting occurs in trenches dug by soldiers. Trench warfare led to long-lasting stalemate. -
Germans Use Gas Bombs
French lines almost collapse when Germans fire chlorine gas shells at them, but the Germans were not able to take advantage of weakened line. -
Lusitania
German submarine sinks a passenger boat carrying 1,198 people; 128 of them were Americans. -
Limiting Submarine Warfare
As a response to the sinking of the Lusitania and other neutral passenger ships, Germany limits unrestricted submarine warfare. This makes it harder for Germany to stop America from sending supplies to the Allied Powers but delays the United States's entrance into the war. -
Tanks
British used first tanks in battle. They were still primitive and not as decisive in battle as the inventors thought they would be. -
Submarines Again
Germany's use of submarines resumes which finally helps bring America into the war. -
Zimmerman Telegram
Telegram from German, Arthur Zimmerman, to Mexico intercepted by British and published in American newspapers. Suggested Mexico join Germany and attack the U.S. to get back territory they lost in the war. This helped sway public opinion in favor of joining the war. -
Russian Revolution
Peasant uprisings in Russia caused Czar Nicholas II to step down from power. -
President Supports War
American people angered and want to join the war. The case for entering the war is outlined by Woodrow Wilson before Congress. -
U.S. Declares War
America enters war and joins the Allied powers against Germany. -
Selective Service Act
Authorized military draft for war. Signed by Wilson. -
Russian Monarchy Assassinated
Fearing the Czar and his family would be rescued, the people decided to kill Nicholas, his wife and children, and several of his most loyal servants. -
Peace in the East
Bolshevic government in Russia decides to leave war. Sign peace treaty with Germany, giving up parts of the country that were Poland and Ukraine. All fighting for Germany now in the West. -
Battle of Cantigny
America's first offensive in World War I. Allied victory although it was insignificant. -
Germany Gives Up
Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany steps down and goes to the Netherlands where he spends the rest of his life. With him went the German hope of victory. -
Armistice Day
Fighting on Western Front ends after Armistice signed. -
Treaty of Versailles
World War I end officially when the Treaty of Versailles was signed. It was signed by Germany and the Allied powers, and had 15 parts and 440 articles.
