WWI Unit Test

Front

What problem was the Schlieffen Plan designed to overcome?

Back

Germany wanted to avoid fighting on two fronts.

Answer explanation

The Schlieffen Plan was created to enable Germany to quickly defeat France and then turn to fight Russia, thus avoiding the challenge of fighting on two fronts simultaneously.

Front

What term describes the policy of building up strong armed forces to prepare for war?

Back

Militarism

Answer explanation

The term 'Militarism' refers to the policy of building up strong armed forces in preparation for war. It emphasizes military strength and readiness, distinguishing it from concepts like alliances, nationalism, imperialism, and assassination.

Front

What term describes a formal agreement between two or more nations to cooperate for specific purposes?

Back

Alliances

Answer explanation

The term 'alliances' refers to formal agreements between nations to cooperate for specific purposes, such as military support or economic collaboration, distinguishing it from concepts like militarism, nationalism, and imperialism.

Front

Who was the first country to declare war?

Back

Austria-Hungary

Answer explanation

Austria-Hungary was the first country to declare war in World War I, issuing an ultimatum to Serbia on July 23, 1914, and declaring war on July 28, 1914, following Serbia's response.

Front

What was a common feature of trench warfare during WWI?

Back

Stalemates and long periods of inactivity

Answer explanation

A common feature of trench warfare during WWI was stalemates and long periods of inactivity, as both sides struggled to gain ground, leading to prolonged conflicts with little movement.

Front

What was the immediate cause of the Lusitania sinking?

Back

A German U-boat torpedo

Answer explanation

The Lusitania sank due to a German U-boat torpedo, which struck the ship on May 7, 1915, leading to its rapid sinking and significant loss of life.

Front

What was the reaction of the United States to the Zimmerman Telegram?

Back

They declared war on Germany

Answer explanation

The United States reacted to the Zimmerman Telegram by declaring war on Germany. The telegram, which proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, heightened tensions and contributed to the U.S. entering World War I.

Front

What was the Lusitania carrying that made it a target for German U-boats?

Back

Military supplies

Answer explanation

The Lusitania was targeted by German U-boats because it was carrying military supplies, which were crucial for the Allied war effort. This made it a legitimate target in the eyes of the Germans during World War I.

Front

What battle was extremely important preventing the Germans from taking Paris?

Back

First Battle of Marne

Answer explanation

The First Battle of Marne was crucial in halting the German advance towards Paris in 1914, marking a significant turning point in World War I and preventing the fall of the French capital.

Front

What the first and only major naval battle between the Central and Allied Powers?

Back

Battle of Jutland

Answer explanation

The Battle of Jutland, fought in 1916, was the only significant naval battle between the Central Powers and the Allied Powers during World War I, making it the correct answer.