Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914, by a Serbian nationalist. Austria-Hungary, with the backing of Germany, issued an ultimatum to Serbia that was seen as deliberately unacceptable. When Serbia did not fully comply with the ultimatum, Austria-Hungary declared war on July 28, 1914. Russia began mobilizing its army in support of Serbia, prompting Germany to declare war on Russia on August 1 and on France, Russia's ally, the next day.
How World War 1 Spread:
1. System of Alliances:
The main factor that contributed to the spread of World War 1 was the complex network of alliances between different European countries. These alliances were formed to ensure mutual protection and support in case of war.
- For example, when Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, Russia, as Serbia's ally, felt obligated to mobilize its army, leading to Germany declaring war on Russia and France.
2. Colonial Empires:
The European powers had vast colonial empires in different parts of the world. When war broke out in Europe, these colonies were automatically drawn into the conflict.
- For example, British colonies like India, Australia, and Canada sent troops to fight alongside Britain, while French colonies in Africa and Asia also contributed soldiers and resources.
3. Global Trade and Economic Ties:
The economies of many countries were interconnected through trade and investments. When war disrupted these ties, it created economic instability and hardship, pushing some countries to join the conflict to protect their interests.
- For example, the United States initially remained neutral but eventually entered the war in 1917, partly due to Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare, which threatened American shipping and the supply of vital goods to its allies.
4. Nationalism and Imperial Ambitions:
World War 1 was also fueled by rising nationalism and imperial ambitions among different countries. Some nations sought to expand their territories, gain access to resources, or assert their dominance in international affairs.
- For example, Germany aimed to expand its influence in Europe and challenge British naval supremacy, while countries like Italy and Japan saw an opportunity to gain new territories and colonies.
5. Propaganda and Public Opinion:
Propaganda played a significant role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for the war effort. Governments used various forms of media to portray their cause as just and necessary, often dehumanizing the enemy and glorifying the sacrifices of soldiers. This helped to unify populations behind their respective countries' war efforts.
Global Impact:
World War 1 had a profound impact on a global scale. It led to the deaths of millions of people, including soldiers and civilians, and resulted in widespread devastation and economic disruption. The war also brought about significant political changes, including the collapse of empires, the rise of new nation-states, and the redrawing of national boundaries. The Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919, aimed to prevent future conflicts but had unintended consequences that contributed to the outbreak of World War 2 just two decades later.