Home / IB DP History / IBDP History HL Paper 3 – Europe and the First World War (1871–1923) – Exam-Style Questions
“The assassination of Franz Ferdinand was the main reason for the outbreak of war in \(1914\).” To what extent do you agree with this statement? \([15]\)
Detailed solution
The assassination of Franz Ferdinand was the immediate spark for war, but it became a European conflict because of alliances, nationalism, militarism and imperial rivalry.
The assassination on \(28\) June \(1914\) gave Austria-Hungary an opportunity to act against Serbia. Germany’s Blank Cheque encouraged Austria-Hungary to take a hard line.
Austria-Hungary issued Serbia a severe ultimatum and broke diplomatic relations. Germany then declared war on Russia and invaded France through Belgium, bringing Britain into the conflict.
The failure to resolve the July Crisis activated the Triple Alliance and Triple Entente. A Balkan dispute therefore escalated into a European and later world war.
However, earlier crises in Morocco and Bosnia had been resolved without war. Nationalism, militarism and colonial rivalry created the conditions in which the assassination could lead to a general conflict.
“Domestic instability was the main reason that Germany asked for an armistice in \(1918\).” To what extent do you agree with this statement? \([15]\)
Detailed solution
Domestic instability was an important reason for Germany seeking an armistice, but military defeat and international isolation were also decisive.
The Turnip Winter, food riots and disturbances in industrial areas during January and February \(1918\) showed severe domestic hardship. The Kiel Mutiny in October \(1918\) increased fears of revolution.
The Entente blockade caused starvation and worsening conditions, while strikes increased. These developments weakened morale and political stability at home.
However, Germany became isolated after the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires surrendered. The entry of the United States, the failure of the Ludendorff Offensive and defeat at Amiens weakened Germany’s military position.
German leaders feared conquest but hoped for a negotiated peace based on Wilson’s Fourteen Points. Therefore, domestic instability contributed strongly, but military collapse and the strength of the Allies were equally significant.