The First World War began in central Europe in late July 1914. There were many factors that led Europe to war, such as the conflicts and hostility between the great powers over the previous four decades.
The immediate origins of the war, however, lay in the decisions taken by statesmen and generals during the July Crisis of 1914. This crisis was caused by the assassination of the Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand by Gavrilo Princip, a member of a Serbian nationalist organisation.
Below you'll find a series of articles that explore the origins of the war. Read about Franz Ferdinand's assassination, discover the diplomatic crisis that engulfed Europe in July, explore Germany's strategic war plans, and lots more. We've suggested an order for you to read, but feel free to dip in and out wherever you like.
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Explore the origins of the war
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The assassination of Franz Ferdinand
How did a conspiracy to kill an Archduke Franz Ferdinand set off a chain of events ending in the First World War? Explore what sparked the July Crisis.
Read nowThe assassination of Franz FerdinandLevel: 1 Introductory
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The July Crisis: Immediate reactions
A diplomatic crisis in 1914 led Europe towards war. Find out what happened after Franz Ferdinand's assassination.
Read nowThe July Crisis: Immediate reactionsLevel: 1 Introductory
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The July Crisis: Ultimatum and outbreak of war
A series of diplomatic maneuverings in July 1914 led to an ultimatum from Austria-Hungary to Serbia, and to war.
Read nowThe July Crisis: Ultimatum and outbreak of warLevel: 1 Introductory
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What was The Schlieffen Plan?
France to the west, Russia to the east; Germany had a strategic plan to prevent full-scale war in the early 20th century. So why did it fail?
Read nowWhat was The Schlieffen Plan?Level: 1 Introductory
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War enthusiasm
The August experience allegedly united people behind the 1914 war effort. But this shared enthusiasm is a myth.
Read nowWar enthusiasmLevel: 1 Introductory
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Kaiser Wilhelm II: from early years to exile
The last German Emperor and the last King of Prussia, Wilhelm II led German forces during the First World War.
Read nowKaiser Wilhelm II: from early years to exileLevel: 1 Introductory
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The July Crisis: A chronology
A diplomatic crisis among major European powers in 1914 led to the First World War. What happened when?
Read nowThe July Crisis: A chronologyLevel: 1 Introductory
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The debate on the origins of the First World War
The way historians have viewed the causes of WWI has changed in the hundred years since war broke out. This article explores the origins of the Great War.
Read nowThe debate on the origins of the First World WarLevel: 1 Introductory
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Expert opinion: Origins of the First World War
Listen to two leading historians give their thoughts on the origins of the First World War.
Listen nowExpert opinion: Origins of the First World WarLevel: 2 Intermediate
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Jeremy Paxman discusses Britain's Great War
The Britain's Great War presenter answers questions about the war and why he wanted to make the series.
Watch nowJeremy Paxman discusses Britain's Great WarLevel: 1 Introductory
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Britain's Great War: Download your free 'The First World War Experienced' booklet
From casualties to commemoration, explore the realities of war with this free booklet.
Read nowBritain's Great War: Download your free 'The First World War Experienced' booklet
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