The Start of World War I: A Date Marked in History – July 28, 1914

On the day of July 28, 1914, a major historical event took place that marked the onset of World War I. This momentous event, well-documented in the annals of history, recounts the declaration of war by Austria-Hungary on Serbia – the commencement of the First World War that would engulf the globe for over four years. This war signified the end of the old world order, paving the way for a reshaped world with new power dynamics.

The Preamble to War

This war declaration on Serbia majorly had its roots in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary by Gavrilo Princip, a Serbian Nationalist, on June 28, 1914, in Sarajevo. This act of violence led to a chain of events, causing tensions and hostilities to arise between Austria-Hungary and Serbia that ultimately culminated in the First World War.

Sequence of Events

After the assassination, an ultimatum was sent to Serbia by Austria-Hungary, wherein the latter outlined ten tough conditions for the former. Serbia accepted most of these, but with reservations. However, this was not satisfactory to Austria-Hungary, who wanted complete compliance. On July 28, 1914, they declared war on Serbia, marking the official outbreak of World War I.

The War’s Aftermath

The First World War continued until November 11, 1918. This brutal war cost the lives of millions, caused vast physical destruction and economic disruption. It also led to significant political changes, including revolutions in many of the nations involved.

Interesting Facts for Kids

1. Over 65 million men from around the world fought in WWI.
2. More than 9 million soldiers and 7 million civilians died as a result of the war.
3. The term “dogfight” evolved during World War I, referring to close range aerial combat between fighter aircrafts.
4. Chemical weapons were first used during WWI, including poison gas.

Educational Activities for Kids

1. Read and summarize a book on World War I. Extract key events, countries involved, and major outcomes.
2. Create a WWI timeline marking key events from the start to the end of the war.
3. Draw or paint a poster about World War I.
4. Discuss how the world was impacted by WWI, focusing on how it reshaped national boundaries and led to significant political changes.

Conclusion
The onset of World War I on July 28, 1914, defined a significant turning point in global history, incurring an enormous human cost and causing massive socio-political changes. As we remember this day, it serves not just as a reminder of the devastation that war can bring, but also as a catalyst to strive for peace and unity around the world.

References
1. Gilbert, Martin. The First World War: A Complete History. (Holt, 1994)
2. Keegan, John. The First World War. (Random House, 1998)
3. Strachan, Hew. The First World War: A New History. (Simon & Schuster, 2003)