Mobilisation of German and French troops, WWI, 1914

In 1914, Germany planned to quickly move troops eastward to confront Russia, led by Tsar Nicholas. On August 3rd, German forces advanced through Belgium into France. Meanwhile, French soldiers confidently re-entered Alsace Lorraine, aiming to reclaim it from Germany. Both sides anticipated a short war, expecting decisive battles to conclude it by year's end.

What was the initial German plan regarding their troops after a few weeks of victory?

• To retreat back to Germany

• To fortify the western front

• To send them south to Italy

• To move them eastward by railroad to confront the Russian army

On which date did the German forces begin their swift movement through Belgium into France?

• August 10, 1914

• August 1, 1914

• August 3, 1914

• August 5, 1914

What was the sentiment among French soldiers as they re-entered Alsace Lorraine?

• They were confident and joyous

• They were indifferent to the campaign

• They were fearful of German retaliation

• They were hesitant and unsure

What did both the French and Germans believe about the duration of the war?

• It would be over in a few months

• It would last several years

• It would be a prolonged conflict

• It would end in a stalemate

What did the French aim to achieve by re-entering Alsace Lorraine?

• To establish a new government

• To negotiate peace with Germany

• To form an alliance with Belgium

• To reclaim territories lost after the Franco-Prussian War