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World War I
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Archduke Franz Ferdinand Assassinated
When the Archduke of Austria-Hungary is assassinated by Gavrilo Princip in Sarajevo, the war starts. This is important becuase it brought the tension into the world and ultimately was the maing reason the war started. -
Unrest in Russia
Russia moves its army to intervene in Austria-Hungary. This is important becuase it brought about a chain reaction that led to the Great Powers being activated and the hostility began. -
The War Begins Officially
Germany invades Belgium, officially starting World War I. This is important becuase it is the first battle in the war. -
Germans Use Poisonous Gas
Germans fire shells filled with chlorine gas at the Allies. This is important becuase it is the first time a weapon like this has been used in battle. The Germans didn't quite breach the French lines but it sure was a boost. -
Lusitania
The Lusitania is sunk by a German submarine while carrying 128 Americans on board.This is important because it sparked the US to join the war. -
German Restriction
The Germans put an end to unrestricted submarine warfare as an effort to keep the US out of the war. This is impotant because their attempts are futile and the US joins the war anyway. -
Battle of Verdun (Link)
The Battle of Verdun 1916
Battle that lasts nine months when the Germnas try to Surround the French. This is importnat because it is the longest battle of the war. -
Germans Use Tanks-Link Here
The first tanks are used in battle as path clearers. Primitve but still effective. This is important because this is the first time technology like this has been used in battle. -
German Subs are Back
Germany takes off the restriction on submarine warfare. This is important because it is the single biggest reason the US joined the war. -
Zimmerman Telegram
A messge from Germany to Mexico about possibly joining sides is intercepted by the US and is the straw that broke the camel's back. This is important because it was just one more reason for the US to join the fight. -
Wilson Wants War
Wilson outlines his plan for war to Congress. This is important because the US is actually joining the war now. -
US Enters War
Congress authorizes it for the US to declare war on Germany. We side with Britain and France. -
Selective Service Act
According to this act the government was allowed to draft men for military service. This is important because it angered some Americans, but strengthened our army and helped finish the war. -
German and Russian Peace
The Russians sign peace with the Germans. All the Russian troops were taken off the Eastern front and joined the Western Front. This is important because it gave the French, British, and Americans a run for their money. -
The Battle of Cantigny
First major battle the Amercans were a part of. This is important because although not huge, it gave the Americans confidence. -
Chateau-Thierry
Americans attack the Germans. This is important because it morphs in the Battle of Belleau Wood. -
Battle of Belleau Wood
Ends the final expulsion of the German troops. This is important because there were 10,000 American deaths. -
Battle of St. Mihiel
300,000 American troops under General Pershing fling themselves at German lines. This is important because the Germans are unable to overcome the huge push. -
Wilhelm Steps Down
Kaiser Wilhelm steps down and moves to the Netherlands where he finishes his life in peace. This is important because the Germans no longer had any more hope. -
Armistice Day
The Fighting ends on the Western Front. This is importnat because it is the end of the war.
