In 1914, the world was at its height of civilization but on the brink of war. Austria-Hungary blamed Serbia for an assassination, leading to a chain reaction of alliances and declarations of war. Germany's plan to quickly defeat France was thwarted, leading to trench warfare on the Western Front. Soldiers endured horrific conditions, and the war became a prolonged and deadly conflict.
Here are the key facts extracted from the provided text:
1. The year is 1914, characterized by modern technology, culture, and fashion.
2. There was a sense that a big war was imminent.
3. France wanted to regain territory taken by Germany.
4. Germany desired to expand its territorial holdings.
5. Germany was building a formidable navy, causing concern for Britain.
6. Various regions within empires were seeking independence with help from Russia.
7. Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary was assassinated in a failed attempt.
8. Austria-Hungary blamed Serbia for the assassination.
9. Austria-Hungary sought support from Germany, leading to the declaration of war on Serbia.
10. Austria-Hungary and Germany were allies.
11. Russia, friends with Serbia, declared war on Austria-Hungary.
12. Montenegro joined the conflict, and France and Britain formed alliances.
13. Britain initially considered staying out of the war but later joined due to Germany's actions in Belgium.
14. Germany planned to swiftly defeat France, then Russia.
15. Germany opted to go through Belgium, a neutral country.
16. Belgium resisted, causing Britain to declare war on Germany.
17. Germany committed atrocities in Belgium.
18. The Great War marked a shift in military tactics and uniforms.
19. Trench warfare began on the Western Front.
20. Trench warfare involved heavy artillery bombardments, machine guns, and high casualties.
21. The fighting in the trenches was marked by slow progress and immense hardships.
These facts summarize the key events and developments in the text without including opinions.