How One Assassination Started WWI

The War That Changed the World Year 5 History

Meet Archduke Franz Ferdinand

Next in line to rule Austria-Hungary A powerful empire in central Europe Visited Sarajevo on June 28, 1914 This visit would change history forever

The Fateful Day: June 28, 1914

Think About It

Why might one person's death cause a huge war? What other factors might have been building up?

Europe's Dangerous Alliances

Countries formed protective partnerships Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy Triple Entente: France, Russia, Britain If one country was attacked, allies would help

Rising Tensions in Europe

{"left":"Countries competed for colonies overseas\nNations built bigger and bigger armies","right":"People felt strong pride in their countries\nSome groups wanted independence from empires"}

The Spark Becomes a Fire

Austria-Hungary blamed Serbia for the assassination Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia Russia supported Serbia Germany supported Austria-Hungary Soon all the major powers were at war

Cause and Effect Chain

Work with a partner Create a chain showing how the assassination led to world war Start with: Franz Ferdinand is assassinated End with: World War begins

A War That Changed Everything

Soldiers came from all over the world New deadly weapons were used Millions of people were affected The war lasted much longer than anyone expected

Remember the Lesson

One violent act + Rising tensions + Dangerous alliances = World War How political decisions and pride can lead to huge consequences