The Outbreak of World War I: The Role of Austria-Hungary
Gavrilo Princip's Assassination and the Invasion of Serbia
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, by Gavrilo Princip on July 28, 1914, was the catalyst for World War I. Austria-Hungary, supported by Germany, accused Serbia of complicity in the assassination and issued an ultimatum demanding that Serbia accept certain conditions, including an end to anti-Austrian propaganda and the suppression of nationalist organizations.
Political and Economic Tensions
Germany's Emerging Power
Germany, a relatively young nation-state, had rapidly become a significant political and economic power. However, it lacked the experience and stability of other European nations.
Austria-Hungary's Fragility
Austria-Hungary, a multi-national empire composed of diverse ethnic and linguistic groups, faced internal tensions and political unrest. The Austro-Hungarian monarchy struggled to maintain control over its vast territories.
Diplomatic Failure
Despite attempts at diplomacy, tensions between Austria-Hungary and Serbia escalated. European powers, including France, Russia, and Great Britain, failed to resolve the crisis peacefully. Germany's unconditional support for Austria-Hungary emboldened the latter in its actions against Serbia.
The Outbreak of War
On July 28, 1914, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. In response, Russia, allied with Serbia, began mobilizing its army. Germany, bound by treaty to support Austria-Hungary, declared war on Russia and France, a Russian ally. Thus began the cataclysmic conflict that would engulf Europe and beyond for over four years.
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