World War I (1914-1918) is often referred to as the great catastrophe of the 20th century. It is considered a new type of war in which modern weapon technology was used for the first time. The war’s roots can be found in the power-political rivalries of the European states at the beginning of the 20th century. Following the assassination of the Austro-Hungarian Crown Prince Franz Ferdinand, an alliance-political chain reaction began in Europe. In 1914, the German Empire declared war on the Russian Empire. France, Great Britain and other states joined the war later. However, World War I was not only fought on the battlefields of Europe. It also took place in the colonies of Africa, the Middle East and on the high seas. It ended in 1918 with the military surrender of the Germans and their allies. The number of dead and injured was devastating: around 9 million soldiers and 6 million civilians were killed. In articles, picture galleries and virtual exhibitions you will learn more about selected events of World War I.
