Course Content
Background Information on 1870s European Powers
Before 1900, Europe was dominated by powerful empires such as the British, French, Austro-Hungarian, Russian, and Ottoman Empires. The period was marked by industrialization, imperial expansion, nationalism, and frequent political rivalries that set the stage for major conflicts.
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Causes and Results of the First World War
World War I (1914–1918) was a global conflict triggered by political tensions and alliances among European powers. It caused massive loss of life and led to significant political and territorial changes worldwide.
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League of Nations
The League of Nations was an international organization formed after World War I to maintain peace and prevent future conflicts. It aimed to resolve disputes through dialogue and promote cooperation among nations.
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Interwar Period
The interwar period refers to the years between World War I and World War II (1918–1939). It was marked by political instability, economic difficulties such as the Great Depression, and the rise of totalitarian regimes in countries like Germany and Italy. This period also saw efforts at peace through the League of Nations, but ultimately tensions grew, leading to the outbreak of World War II.
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WWII
World War II (1939–1945) was a global conflict involving major powers divided into the Allies and Axis. It resulted in widespread destruction, the defeat of fascism, and significant geopolitical changes worldwide.
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Cold War Period
The Cold War was a prolonged period of political and military tension between the USA and the Soviet Union after World War II. It was characterized by rivalry, arms race, and competition for global influence without direct large-scale fighting between the two superpowers.
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Decolonisation of India and Kenya
Decolonisation of India and Kenya involved struggles for independence from British colonial rule, achieved through political movements and resistance. India gained independence in 1947, while Kenya achieved it in 1963 after a prolonged fight against colonial oppression.
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Postcolonial Crisis
The postcolonial crisis refers to the challenges African countries faced after gaining independence, including political instability, ethnic conflicts, economic difficulties, and weak governance. These issues often hindered development and nation-building efforts in the newly independent states.
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History Form 4

 

  • Background: The assassination is considered the immediate cause of World War I. Bosnia, with a significant Slavic population, was annexed by Austria-Hungary, creating tensions with Serbia, which sought independence for Slavs.
  • The Black Hand Movement: A nationalist group in Serbia viewed as a terrorist organization by Austria-Hungary, aimed at achieving autonomy for Bosnia.
  • Assassination Details:
    • On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie, visited Sarajevo.
    • Six members of the Black Hand lined the route with plans to kill him.
    • The first assassination attempt failed when one member, Cabrinovic, was captured after throwing a grenade.
    • Gavrilo Princip, another member, seized an unexpected opportunity as the Archduke’s car took a wrong turn. He shot and killed both Ferdinand and his wife.

Austria-Hungary’s Reaction

  • Ultimatum to Serbia (July 23, 1914): Austria-Hungary issued a series of demands, including:
    • Suppression of anti-Austrian sentiments.
    • Allowing Austrian officials into Serbia.
    • Punishment of the Black Hand members.
    • Prevention of arms smuggling across the border.
  • Serbia’s Response: Accepted most demands but rejected the entry of Austrian officials, prompting Austria-Hungary to seek an excuse for war.

Escalation to War

  • Support from Germany: Germany assured Austria-Hungary of support in the event of war.
  • Russian Mobilization: To support Serbia, Russia ordered general mobilization on July 29, 1914.

Key Events Leading to War

  1. July 23, 1914: Austria sends an ultimatum to Serbia.
  2. July 28, 1914: Austria-Hungary attacks Serbia.
  3. July 29, 1914: Russia mobilizes its army.
  4. July 31, 1914: Germany demands Russian demobilization; Russia refuses.
  5. August 1, 1914: Germany declares war on Russia.
  6. August 3, 1914: Germany declares war on Belgium and France.
  7. August 4, 1914: Britain declares war on Germany.
  8. August 6, 1914: Austria declares war on Russia.

Germany’s War Strategy: The Schlieffen Plan

  • Objective: Designed to quickly defeat France through Belgium before turning to Russia.
  • Consequences: Germany’s invasion of neutral Belgium led Britain to declare war.

Reasons for the Schlieffen Plan’s Failure

  1. Unexpected Two-Front War: Belgium and France resisted effectively.
  2. Delays: Belgian sabotage of railways hindered German supply lines.
  3. Trench Warfare: Fighting in trenches prolonged the war.
  4. Quick Russian Mobilization: Russia invaded Germany sooner than expected.

The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand

  • Context: Sarajevo, capital of annexed Bosnia, home to Slav people wanting independence from Austria-Hungary.
  • Nationalism: Bosnian nationalists formed the Black Hand Movement to fight for autonomy.
  • Assassination Attempt: On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated by Gavrilo Princip after failed earlier attempts.

Austria-Hungary’s Reaction

  • Ultimatum to Serbia (July 23, 1914): Demands included suppressing anti-Austrian sentiment and allowing Austrian officials into Serbia.
  • Serbia’s Response: Accepted most demands but refused free entry for Austrian officials.

Outbreak of World War I

  • Escalation: Austria-Hungary’s dissatisfaction with Serbia’s response led to conflict.
  • Mobilizations: Russia mobilized in support of Serbia, leading to Germany declaring war on Russia and later on Belgium and France, dragging in Britain.

 

Germany’s War Strategy

  • Schlieffen Plan: Designed to quickly defeat France through Belgium.
  • Consequences: Germany faced prolonged resistance, leading to trench warfare and eventual stalemate.
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