WWI Begins - 1914

1. Archduke Francis Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary was assassinated A. Gavrilo Princip – Serbian Assassin

2. Germany wrote Austria a “blank check” to deal with Serbia

3. Austria issued an ultimatum to Serbia

4. Serbia rejected the ultimatum – Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia

5. Russia mobilized their army in support of Serbia

6. France joined Russia

7. Germany declared war on Russia and France

Early Allies Serbia vs. Austria-Hungary Russia Germany France WHO IS MISSING?

- Major General Henry Wilson to French General Ferdinand Foch “What is the smallest British military force that would be of any practical assistance to you?” - Major General Henry Wilson to French General Ferdinand Foch

“A single British soldier – and we will see to it that he is killed.” - Gen. Ferdinand Foch

8. Because they are surrounded, Germany used Schlieffen Plan to attack A. Idea was to defeat France quickly, then attack Russia B. Invaded neutral Belgium to get to France C. Britain then declared war on Germany

Major Alliances in WWI ALLIES vs. CENTRAL POWERS Serbia Austria-Hungary Russia Germany France Britain WHO IS TO BLAME???