A devotion to the interests, and excessive pride, in one’s nation
nationalism
These mutual-defense treaties placed European countries in two main groups
alliances
Why was the Balkans referred to as the "powder keg of Europe" before World War I?
Nationalism and ethnic tensions created instability, increasing the likelihood of conflict.
What was "No Man’s Land"?
A dangerous, barren area between opposing trenches, filled with barbed wire and shell craters
What is conscription (the draft) during wartime?
A policy where citizens may be selected, and required, to serve in the military.
a policy in which large or powerful countries seek to extend their influence and authority beyond their own borders (often into weaker nations/territories)
imperialism
The building up and expansion of a country's armed forces
militarism
What event is often considered the “spark that ignited the powder keg” during World War I?
The assassination of the heir to the Austria-Hungary throne by a Serbian nationalist
Which statement best describes the use of poison gas in World War I?
The Germans first used it in 1915, introducing chemical warfare to the battlefield.
German U-Boats started to use this tactic, and began to attack any ship (not just merchant vessels):
Unrestricted submarine warfare
Ethnic groups began to resent domination of their country by other ethnic groups - wanted to gain independence
nationalism
Agreement between countries promising to defend one another in case of an attack
alliances
How did alliances contribute to the outbreak of World War I?
They forced countries to declare war if an allied nation was attacked, creating a domino effect.
Why did German U-boats attack Allied merchant ships?
To cut off supplies to Britain
What was the significance of the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915?
It resulted in the death of 1,200 people, including 128 Americans, and turned U.S. public opinion against Germany.
Led to competition among European powers → more colonies under their control = more power, more money
imperialism
Allied Powers
Russia (left), Britain, France, US
Why did Germany invade neutral Belgium at the start of World War I?
To bypass French defenses and they hoped to avoid fighting France and Russia at the same time (two fronts)
How did the Allies use their colonies during World War I?
Colonies were used to supply troops and resources for the war effort.
What was the purpose, or aim, of propaganda during the war? (Select all that apply)
Propaganda spread to demonize the enemy
Hoped it would convince citizens to loan money for the war effort.
Germany tried to build up its navy to match Britain’s navy = cycle of constant production
militarism
Central Powers
Austria-Hungary
Germany
Ottoman Empire
Bulgaria
What type of warfare was prominent during World War I?
Trench warfare
What does the term "Total War" refer to in the context of World War I?
The use of all available resources from the population, industry, and economy to support the war effort.
What is one of the roles many women began to have during World War I?
Took over men’s jobs in factories and war industries.