Life in the Early 1910s

Beginning during the 19th century, European nations began forming alliances in order to maintain a balance of power in Europe. The two major alliances were known as the Triple Entente, comprised of the Russian Empire, the French Third Republic, and the United Kingdom of Britain and Ireland; and the Central Powers, comprised of Germany and Austria-Hungary. These nations faced conflicts related to arms and territory, specifically with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

On June 28th, 1914 while visiting Sarajevo, the Bosnian capital, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated by a group of assassins. The group’s motivation was to end Austria-Hungary’s control in the area to form Yugoslavia.

The Archduke’s death would lead to a month long diplomatic crisis between the two European alliances known as the July Crisis. By the end of July of 1914, Austria-Hungary ceased diplomatic relations with Serbia and officially declared war against them on July 28, 1914. This declaration began the mobilization of Allied nations giving their support. By early August of 1914, the Great War had begun.