Imagine a world so full of tension between countries that a single spark was enough to ignite a global fire. That’s how World War I began in 1914 — a four-year conflict that not only redrew the map of Europe but also reshaped international relations throughout the 20th century.
But what exactly pushed the world to the brink of chaos? And how can such a tragic episode still be filled with curious and surprising aspects? Let’s dive into this story that goes beyond trenches and history books.
Who Were the Main Sides in the War?
World War I, also known as the Great War, saw two major alliances on opposing sides: the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy) and the Triple Entente (France, Britain, and Russia). Curiously, Italy switched sides mid-conflict and joined the Entente.
Although it was mainly a European war, it involved 17 countries from all continents — including Brazil. Yes, Brazil took part too, but we’ll get to that!
The Spark: A Murder That Made History
Did you know that one of the 20th century’s largest conflicts started because of a crime in a city few people could locate on a map? On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, was assassinated in Sarajevo by a Bosnian-Serb student.
What seemed like an isolated attack triggered a chain reaction: alliances were activated, and declarations of war spread like falling dominoes. Within days, Europe was at war.
The Real Causes of World War I
Though the assassination was the trigger, the war had been “loaded” for years. Among the main causes of World War I were:
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A fierce arms race, with nations arming themselves like never before.
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Rising nationalism, especially among France, Germany, and Russia.
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Imperialist rivalries, with powers eager to expand their influence.
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The unstable Balkans, where empires competed for territory.
Curiously, new technologies also played a role: faster trains and modern weapons made armies more efficient — and more dangerous.
Phases of the War: Trenches, Advances, and Setbacks
The war began with quick movements, but soon became stagnant. Enter trench warfare, where soldiers lived buried in the ground for months, facing cold, mud, rats, and disease — life in a hole amidst chaos.
Technological innovation also made the war terrifying: tanks, planes, submarines, heavy artillery, and poisonous gas. Over 10 million soldiers died, along with 6 million civilians and more than 20 million wounded.
The U.S. Enters, Russia Leaves
In 1917, two events changed everything. Russia exited the war after the Revolution that overthrew the czar and established a socialist regime. Meanwhile, the United States joined the conflict after German submarines attacked ships and a secret telegram revealed a plan to ally with Mexico against the U.S. (Yes, that nearly happened!).
With American support, the balance began to shift in favor of the Entente.
The End and the Treaty of Versailles
The war officially ended on November 11, 1918. In 1919, the Treaty of Versailles imposed harsh penalties on Germany: loss of territory and colonies, enormous reparations, and accepting blame for the war.
These humiliations fueled resentment in Germany, becoming one of the main causes of World War II years later.
Brazil in World War I
So where does Brazil fit into this story? In 1917, after German submarines attacked Brazilian ships, the country cut ties with the aggressors. Brazil sent troops and — most notably — medical support to Europe, marking a discreet yet symbolic participation in the war.
Consequences of World War I
The war had far-reaching consequences:
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Redrawing of political maps in Europe and the Middle East.
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Creation of the League of Nations, a first attempt at global diplomacy (spoiler: it didn’t quite work).
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Rise of the United States as a global power.
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Political instability in Germany, paving the way for Nazism.
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And of course, deep social scars, grief, and shifts that still resonate today.
Curious Facts Worth Noting
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In 1906, the UK launched the Dreadnought, a warship so advanced it revolutionized naval warfare.
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Germany tried to build a railway from Berlin to Baghdad, which seriously upset the Russians.
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The alliance system was so entangled that a regional war in the Balkans spiraled into a global conflict.
A Thought to Reflect On
World War I was undeniably a turning point in modern history. But beyond the battles and treaties, it’s a reminder of how rivalry, ambition, and pride can reshape — or destroy — entire societies.
Here at Entre Histórias e Viagens, we like to explore history with curiosity and respect, honoring the lives touched — and lost — during such defining times.
Fontes de referência:
Primeira Guerra Mundial (1914-1918): o que foi, as causas e consequências - Toda Matéria
