The Outbreak of the First World War

In this lecture, Prof Michael Neiberg explores a number of themes relating to the outbreak of the First World War, from the diplomatic crisis to the reaction of civilian populations.

Were Europeans as 'eager' for war as is commonly perceived? Are there parallels in what's happening in the world today?

World War I began in the summer of 1914, triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary. This event, coupled with existing tensions and alliances in Europe, quickly escalated into a global conflict.

The assassination, carried out by a Serbian nationalist, prompted Austria-Hungary to declare war on Serbia, which in turn led to a series of declarations and mobilizations that drew in major European powers. 

The Spark: The Assassination:

On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, and his wife were assassinated in Sarajevo by Gavrilo Princip, a member of a Serbian nationalist group called the Black Hand. This event served as the immediate trigger for the conflict.

The July Crisis:

Following the assassination, Austria-Hungary, with the support of Germany, issued an ultimatum to Serbia, demanding concessions that Serbia could not fully accept. This led to a series of diplomatic failures and ultimatums, known as the July Crisis.

Alliances and Mobilizations:

Europe was already divided into two main alliances: the Triple Entente (France, Russia, and Great Britain) and the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy). Austria-Hungary's declaration of war on Serbia triggered Russia's mobilization to support Serbia.

Germany, allied with Austria-Hungary, then declared war on Russia and France. Germany's invasion of neutral Belgium, in violation of a treaty, led Britain to declare war on Germany.