AQA GCSE History: WWI Alliances Overview
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Questions and Answers

What was the primary aim of Great Britain in terms of its empire during the lead-up to World War I?

To protect and maintain its empire.

Which two opposing alliances formed in Europe before World War I?

The Triple Alliance and the Triple Entente.

What major political tension existed between Russia and Austria-Hungary prior to World War I?

Rivalry over control of the Slavs.

What key territory did Germany take from France in 1871 that contributed to tensions between the two nations?

<p>Alsace-Lorraine.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Britain's military strategy contribute to its global influence before World War I?

<p>By having the largest navy in the world.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of Serbia's independence in 1878 in the context of World War I?

<p>It represented a challenge to Austro-Hungarian influence in the Balkans.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What event weakened Russia's military position prior to World War I?

<p>Their defeat against Japan in 1905.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivated Germany's ambitions regarding Great Britain?

<p>Germany's desire to expand and rival Britain's global influence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Weltpolitik' refer to in the context of Germany's foreign policy?

<p>Weltpolitik means 'world policy', indicating Germany's aim to expand its global influence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe Britain's approach to foreign policy known as 'Splendid Isolation'.

<p>Splendid Isolation refers to Britain's strategy of remaining aloof and not forming military alliances in the late 19th century.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why was Britain concerned about Germany's policy of Weltpolitik?

<p>Britain was concerned that Germany's ambition to expand its empire and build up its navy threatened its own power and interests.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were Kaiser Wilhelm's ambitions for Germany under Weltpolitik?

<p>Kaiser Wilhelm aimed for Germany to become a global power and the greatest nation on earth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact did the rivalry between Britain and France over colonies have on Britain's foreign policy?

<p>The rivalry prompted Britain to leave Splendid Isolation and seek closer relations with France.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Germany justify its Weltpolitik policy?

<p>Germany justified Weltpolitik by claiming it was surrounded by potential threats and felt insecure about its future.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which year did Kaiser Wilhelm start building a significant fleet of German ships?

<p>Kaiser Wilhelm began building a significant fleet in 1905.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of Germany's naval expansion on European diplomatic relations?

<p>Germany's naval expansion increased tensions among European powers, particularly between Germany and Britain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What change did Germany make in their strategy during the Battle of the Marne?

<p>Germany changed their plan to head directly to Paris.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did French troops arrive to defend Paris during the Battle of the Marne?

<p>French troops arrived by rail and taxi.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the combined British and French forces at the Battle of the Marne?

<p>They halted the German advance along the River Marne.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of Russian mobilization speed on Germany's plans?

<p>Russian mobilization was faster than the Germans planned, complicating German strategy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable tactic used by the British Expeditionary Force during the Battle of Mons?

<p>They used rapid rifle fire, causing the Germans to believe they were under machine gun fire.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the Battle of Tannenberg affect German troops?

<p>Germany lost 13,000 troops at the Battle of Tannenberg.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterized the conditions of life in the trenches during World War I?

<p>Life in the trenches was tough, with varying conditions depending on location.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What mental health issue was common among soldiers in the trenches?

<p>'Shellshock' was common among soldiers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were the primary duties of soldiers in the trenches, and how were these responsibilities divided?

<p>Soldiers' duties were divided into three roles: 1/3 on guard duty, 1/3 repairing damage and collecting supplies, and 1/3 resting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the psychological effects of trench warfare on soldiers.

<p>The psychological effects included shellshock, with some soldiers shaking uncontrollably while others experienced paralysis from fear.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did weather conditions affect the soldiers in the trenches?

<p>Trenches were boiling hot in summer and freezing cold in winter, severely impacting the soldiers' comfort and health.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What common illnesses did soldiers suffer from, and what were their causes?

<p>Soldiers suffered from pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, and diarrhea, often caused by unsanitary conditions and exposure to the elements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did lice and other vermin play in the health of soldiers?

<p>Lice spread illnesses like Trench Fever, while rats fed on corpses and soldiers' food, increasing the risk of disease.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the schedule for soldiers in the trenches, and how did it vary?

<p>Soldiers typically spent 4 days on the front line, 4 days in a support trench, and 8 days in reserve before resting behind the front.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what ways did the living conditions in the trenches contribute to physical ailments?

<p>The lack of toilets and clean water led to trench foot and other ailments, as soldiers could not maintain proper hygiene.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the 'Stand To' in the context of trench warfare?

<p>'Stand To' referred to the highest state of alert where soldiers prepared for possible enemy attacks at dawn and dusk.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant effect of chlorine gas used in World War I on British troops?

<p>Chlorine gas caused fear and terror among British troops, leading to breathing problems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what year did British troops begin to carry gas masks due to chemical attacks?

<p>British troops carried gas masks by April 1916.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did aircraft play in World War I during the early years?

<p>Initially, aircraft were used for reconnaissance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were two major drawbacks of early aircraft used in the war?

<p>Early aircraft were cramped and lacked parachutes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What advancement in weaponry was first used by British forces in 1916?

<p>Tanks were first used in 1916.</p> Signup and view all the answers

By what year had tanks advanced significantly on the battlefield, especially at the Battle of Cambrai?

<p>By 1918.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge faced anti-aircraft defenses in the early stages of the war?

<p>Anti-aircraft guns were used to defend against aerial attacks but were often ineffective due to the technology limitations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the dual usage of machine guns mounted on aircraft during World War I.

<p>Machine guns mounted on aircraft served as offensive weapons against enemy forces and defensive measures against enemy planes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What initial expectations did the British have regarding the defense of their homeland during the war?

<p>The British did not expect strong resistance and thought they could easily defend their homeland.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the geographical terrain affect the Allied forces during the landings?

<p>The difficult terrain and misleading maps made progress impossible for the Allied forces.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary method of communication used in making battle plans before the landings?

<p>Battle plans were drawn using sketches of the coastline.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why was control of the sea considered vital for both the British and German forces?

<p>Control of the sea ensured the safe passage of supplies to soldiers and the home front.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What tactics did the Germans employ to disrupt the British Blockade?

<p>The Germans used U-boats to attack British and Allied cargo ships.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were the consequences of poor Allied organization during the landings?

<p>The Allies landed in the wrong locations, resulting in disarray and heavy casualties.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the impact of the British Navy's bombing on Turkish fortifications.

<p>The British Navy attempted to weaken Turkish defenses but did not achieve the desired effect.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the presence of cliffs affect the Allied troops during their operations?

<p>The cliffs posed a formidable barrier, denying the Allies a safe escape from Turkish fire.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Alliance System

A system where countries agree to support each other, militarily or economically.

Triple Entente

An alliance between Britain, France, and Russia.

Triple Alliance

An alliance between Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy.

British Empire

The vast empire controlled by Great Britain.

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German-French rivalry

Conflict between Germany and France, stemming from the Franco-Prussian War.

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Russia-Austria-Hungary rivalry

Conflict between Russia and Austria-Hungary over control of Slavic territories.

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Nationalism

Strong loyalty to one's country, sometimes leading to conflict with others

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Colonial Rivalry

Competition among European powers for colonies and resources.

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Weltpolitik

Germany's foreign policy aimed at establishing a global presence and increasing its power.

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Splendid Isolation

Britain's policy of avoiding formal alliances with other European powers.

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Kaiser Wilhelm

German emperor who led the country toward a more aggressive foreign policy.

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British Navy

The powerful military force that protected Britain's vast empire and trade routes.

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Colonial conflicts

Disagreements between Britain and France over controlling territories in Africa.

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German navy expansion

Germany's substantial increase in naval strength.

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German insecurity

Germany's feeling of being surrounded and uncertain about its future.

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Increased tensions

Growing conflicts and rivalries among European powers, especially Britain and Germany.

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Battle of the Marne

A crucial WWI battle where the combined French and British forces stopped the German advance toward Paris.

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Battle of Mons

A WWI battle where the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) engaged the German army, delaying their advance.

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German Plan Change

Germany changed its strategy from a direct advance on Paris to a different approach.

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Two-Front War

Germany's situation of fighting on both the Eastern and Western Fronts in WWI.

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Battles of Tannenberg & Masurian Lakes

Important WWI battles on the Eastern Front, where Russian forces faced German forces.

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Western Front Stalemate

A military deadlock that developed as both sides dug trenches for protection.

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Shellshock

A mental health condition resulting from the stress of trench warfare.

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Trench Warfare Conditions

The harsh conditions faced by soldiers in trenches during World War 1, varied by location on the Western Front.

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Chlorine Gas

A poisonous gas used in World War I that caused breathing problems, burning, and blindness.

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Mustard Gas

A chemical weapon used in World War I that caused severe blistering and burns on the skin, eyes, and lungs.

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First use of Aircraft

Before 1914, planes were mainly used for reconnaissance. During World War I, they were adapted for combat, though early models were unreliable and dangerous.

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Early Aircraft limitations

Early planes were cramped, lacked parachutes, and were prone to crashes. They were primarily used for reconnaissance, but their role evolved to bombing and fighting.

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Anti-aircraft Guns

Defenses against enemy planes, developed during World War I, included mounted machine guns and specialized guns, aiming to shoot down planes.

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Tanks

Armored vehicles designed for warfare, used in World War I for attacking enemy trenches and advancing through battlefields. They were initially slow but became an important part of combat.

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Somme Battle

A major battle of World War I, fought in 1916, where tanks were first used on a large scale.

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Cambrai Battle

A battle of World War I, fought in 1917, where tanks played a significant role.

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Trench Life

The daily routine and conditions experienced by soldiers in the trenches during World War I. This included guard duty, repairs, food collection, and periods of rest.

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Rotation System

A schedule where soldiers rotated between different roles in the trenches, including frontline duty, support, reserve, and rest.

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Trench Conditions

The harsh environment of the trenches, characterized by extreme temperatures, lack of hygiene, and the presence of rats and diseases like trench fever.

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Trench Foot

A painful condition caused by prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions, resulting in swelling and sores on the feet.

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Stand to

The highest state of alert in the trenches, where soldiers were on guard for enemy attacks, with loaded guns and heightened vigilance.

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Rats in No Man’s Land

Rats were a common and unsettling sight in the trenches, often feeding on food scraps, dead bodies, and even soldiers themselves.

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Hygiene Challenges

The lack of sanitation and hygiene in the trenches, creating conditions for the spread of diseases and infestations like lice.

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Razor's Edge

A difficult and dangerous terrain in Gallipoli, which was hidden on the maps the British used.

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Turkish artillery fire

The constant shelling and bombing of the Allied beaches in Gallipoli, making escape difficult.

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Allied organization

The poor planning and execution of the Gallipoli campaign, which led to confusion and setbacks.

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What was the impact of the British Navy bombing Turkish forts?

The British Navy bombing of Turkish forts warned the Turks of the upcoming Allied attack on Gallipoli.

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British Blockade

The British blockade of Germany aimed to cut off supplies to Germany during World War I.

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U-boat Campaign

Germany's use of submarines, or U-boats, to attack Allied cargo ships during World War I.

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Control of the Sea

During World War I, capturing and controlling the seas was crucial for both sides to transport supplies to their troops and citizens.

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German AIMS

Germany aimed to destroy the British Blockade during World War I, which was hindering German supply lines.

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Study Notes

AQA GCSE History: Conflict and Tension, First World War 1894-1918

  • Knowledge Organiser Pack: Created by Whitecross Hereford High School.

  • Alliance System: European powers formed alliances to increase influence and security.

    • Triple Entente: Britain, France, Russia.
    • Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy.
    • Alliances are unions between countries to provide mutual support, military or economic.

  • Britain: Large empire, largest navy, wealthy trading nation, focused on maintaining empire.

  • Russia: Rebuilding army after loss to Japan in 1905, feared German land grab, rivals with Austria-Hungary over Slavic territories.

  • France: Lost land (Alsace-Lorraine) to Germany in 1871, worried about further German expansion, second-largest empire.

  • Germany: Seeking global power, small African empire expanding, major trading country.

  • Austria-Hungary: Large European empire, worried about various nationalities seeking independence, concerns over Serbia's growing strength.

  • Splendid Isolation: Britain's policy of avoiding formal alliances in 1800s-early 1900s. -Britain did not need allies, strong navy, richest country.

  • Weltpolitik: Germany's foreign policy of world politics (1890s)

    • Germany's desire to be a great power, expanding empire and building navy.

  • Naval Race: Germany wanted a large navy, Britain wanted to maintain dominance.

    • Dreadnought (1906) led to naval build-up on both sides.

  • Arms Race: European powers significantly increased military spending.

    • Germany's Schlieffen Plan (1905); detailed battle plan for France & Russia, powerful & well-trained army. -France; Secret talks with Britain, Plan 17 (war plan). -Russia; Large army, poorly equipped, plan 19, last to adopt conscription. -Britain; Smallest army.

Moroccan Crises

  • First Moroccan Crisis (1905): Germany opposed French claims in Morocco, leading to international conference.

  • Second Moroccan Crisis (1911): Germany sent a gunboat to Morocco, causing tension with Britain and France. Eventually Germany received land in Congo in a negotiated settlement.

Trouble in the Balkans

  • Bosnian Crisis (1908): Austria-Hungary annexed Bosnia, upsetting Serbia who wanted it. Russia supported Serbia.

  • Balkan Wars (1912-1913): Balkan League fought Turkey; resulting in further territorial disputes between Balkan states.

    • Serbia grew in size.
    • Austria-Hungary was worried about Serbia.

The Slide to War

  • Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (1914): Triggered by the Black Hand Gang, an assassination in Sarajevo, Bosnia.

    • Serbian nationalist group.

  • Blank Check: Germany's promise of support to Austria-Hungary, regardless of actions.

  • Chain Reaction: Declaration of war, involvement of alliances, leading to a continental conflict with several countries.

The War at Sea

  • British Blockade: Britain used naval power to blockade Germany, disrupting trade.

  • U-boat Campaigns: Germany used submarines (U-boats) to attack Allied shipping.

Entry of the USA and Russian Revolution

  • US Entry (1917): German unrestricted submarine warfare, the Zimmerman Telegram, triggered US entry into the war.

  • Russian Revolution (1917): Overthrew the Tsar, leading to Russia's withdrawal from the war.

  • Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, signed the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk.

Key Battles

  • Battle of Verdun (1916): Long, bloody battle with high casualties.

  • Battle of the Somme (1916): Large-scale offensive with significant casualties.

  • Battle of Passchendaele (1917): Muddy, trench-warfare battle.

  • Battle of Cambrai (1917): Early use of tanks, saw significant gains.

Spring Offensive and Hundred Days

  • Spring Offensive (1918): Germany's last major offensive. Failed due to exhaustion and Allied push.

  • Hundred Days Offensive (1918): Allied counter-offensive, pushing Germany back toward defeat.

Home Fronts and Armistice

  • Home Front Impacts (1914-18): War affected people's lives, resulting in:

    • Governmental control
    • Rationing
    • Workforce changes (women joining the workforce)

  • Armistice (1918): End of the fighting.

    • Germany's defeat, new Republic signed armistice, leading to the end of the war.

Development of Tactics and Technology

  • Advances in Air: Aircraft for reconnaissance, support, and combat.

  • Advances at Sea: Hydrophones, submarine tactics, and U-boat development.

  • Advances on the Battlefield: Tanks, artillery development.

  • Advances in Command: Unified command structures.

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AQA GCSE History Conflict & Tension, First World War 1894-1918 PDF

Description

Explore the complex web of alliances leading to World War I in this quiz for AQA GCSE History. You will learn about the key players, their motivations, and how these alliances shaped the conflict's landscape from 1894 to 1918.

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