Words to know! Sympathetic - showing agreement with or favor towards. Pacifists - a person who is opposed to war or to violence of any kind. Ancestry - related by family or ancestral descent Lopsided - more developed on one side than on the other; unevenly balanced

Europe Plunges Into War Section 13.2

Setting the Stage By 1914, Europe was divided into two rival alliances, the Triple Entente and the Central Powers. Austria-Hungary’s declaration of war against Serbia set off a chain reaction within the interlocking web of alliances. The countries of Europe followed through on their pledges to support one another. As a result, nearly all of Europe joined in on the most destructive war the world had seen.

The War Begins... In the late summer of 1914, millions of soldiers marched happily into battle. Most believed the war would be over quickly.

Germany’s Strategy Germany, stuck in the middle of Europe, face a two-front war. Shlieffen Plan The German plan for attacking and defeating France in the West before fighting Russia. To do this Germany had to act fast.

Germany Rolls! Sept. 1914, Germany swept into France. Almost reaching Paris. Germany was days from Victory.

First Battle of the Marne Sept 5, 1914 The Allied forces attacked Germany outside of Paris First major battle on the Western Front. Perhaps the most important victory for the Allies during the war.

Over 600 taxis shuttled soldiers to the front lines!

The Importance A quick victory in the West was no longer possible. Germany was forced to fight the war on two fronts. Ended the Schlieffen Plan.

Using the documents at your table discuss and answer in your Response Section: What assumptions were made by the Germans that should have been considered? What were several factors that lead to the Schlieffen Plan failing? What might have the Germans done differently to make sure the plan was successful? 1/13/14