The Spark
Another Crisis in the Balkans Recap—Austria Hungary and Serbia at odds about the creation of a Slavic Kingdom Who does Russia support? June 28, 1914 Austrian Archduke Francis Ferdinand (heir to the throne) and his wife are assassinated in Sarajevo, Bosnia. Assassin was a Bosnian activist (Gavrilo Princip) who worked for the Black Hand—a Serbian terrorist organization dedicated to a Slavic Kingdom.
Consequences Austria blames Serbia for the assassination Excuse for Austria to use force against Serbia Fearful of Russian support of Serbia, Austria seeks German support. William II’s ‘Blank Check’—full support even if it meant war.
Diplomatic Crisis – tensions mounted Austria Hungary issued ultimatum to Serbia– July 23, 1914 1. required Serbia to end all anti-Austria activities 2. dismiss all officials hostile to Austria Hungary 3. also Austria Hungary wanted to send officials to investigate assassination
Diplomatic Crisis – tensions mounted Serbia w/ difficult decision: Deny ultimatum and go to war Accept ultimatum and lose independence Serbia accepts all but investigation into death This did not satisfy Austria Hungary – determined to punish Serbia
The Outbreak of War July 28, 1914 – Austria Hungary declares war on Serbia alliance system begins Russia mobilizes army (July 31) Germany asked Russia to cancel mobilization – or war would begin Russia didn’t reply Germany declared war on Russia (August 1) Knowing France would join Russia – Germany declares war on France (August 3) What problem does Germany have now that they have declared war on Russia and France?
The Great War Film