WW1: The Great War That No One Thought Was So Great
Overview
World War I, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. It was the first war that involved multiple continents, countries, and the use of new military technology like airplanes and tanks.
Causes
The war was triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary, which caused a series of events that eventually led to war. But let’s be real, the real cause of the war was probably just a case of countries showing off their military might and trying to one-up each other.
The Trenches
One of the most iconic symbols of WW1 was the trenches. Soldiers would spend months and even years living in these cramped, muddy, and disease-ridden spaces, all while being shelled and shot at by their enemies. It’s arguable whether the rats or the lice were the worst part of trench life.
The Weapons
In addition to more traditional weapons like rifles and bayonets, WW1 introduced a slew of new killing machines. Tanks, airplanes, poison gas, and flamethrowers were all used to deadly effect during the war. At least it gave us some cool video game weapon ideas.
The Leaders
The war had no shortage of colorful characters leading their countries into battle. There was Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany, who had a mustache that could rival any hipster’s. Then there was the mustache-less Lenin, who led the Russians in a revolution that took them out of the war. And who could forget about America’s President Woodrow Wilson, who really just wanted everyone to get along and play nice.
The End of the War
After years of fighting and millions of lives lost, the war finally came to an end on November 11, 1918. It was a relief to everyone involved, except maybe the people who had bought a ton of war bonds and were now bankrupt.
The war set the stage for World War II and the rise of the Nazi party. It also led to the breakup of the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of several new states in Europe and the Middle East. But mostly, it gave us some kick-ass war movies to watch on the weekends.
In conclusion, while WW1 may not have been the most “great” war, it did leave a significant impact on the world, both politically and culturally. Plus, it gave us a lot of great stories and jokes about mustaches.