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Assassination of Franz Ferdinand
The “Spark” that started WWI. Ferdinand was almost killed in a bombing of his convertible, but actually died when shot by Gavrilo Princip. -
Period: to
1914-19
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The Lusitania Disaster
British passenger liner that was sank by a German U-boat. This killed 128 American tourists and everyone else on the ship. Was also carrying allied ammunition, which made Americans outraged. -
Battle of the Somme
The British suffered many casualties. This battle started the trench wars and using tactics such as gas attacks to cause blindness and lung diseases. Lasted for three years. -
Russian Revolution
Russia surrendered to Germany in 1917. This gave the Central Powers the ability to focus on the Western Front. Germans were able to reach Paris and Americans helped them win the battle of the Marne. -
The Zimmerman Note
A telegram from Germany that proposed an alliance with Mexico in return for their lost territory in Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico. -
US joins war
Against central powers. Woodrow Wilson declared war for America and said, “The world must be made safe for democracy.” -
Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations
Ended WWI and wars between Germany and other countries. Established nine new nations.
