Causes Of World War I Trivia Quiz

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Causes Of World War I Trivia Quiz - Quiz

This is a multiple choice quiz focusing on essential knowledge from the Modern History topic: Causes of World War I


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    When was World War I?

    • A.

      1912 - 1919

    • B.

      1914 - 1917

    • C.

      1914 - 1918

    • D.

      1905 - 1912

    Correct Answer
    C. 1914 - 1918
    Explanation
    World War I took place from 1914 to 1918. This was a global conflict primarily centered in Europe, involving numerous countries and resulting in significant loss of life and devastation. The war was triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in 1914 and lasted for four years until an armistice was signed in 1918. The correct answer, "1914 - 1918," accurately represents the duration of World War I.

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  • 2. 

    Who was the leader of Germany at the start of World War I?

    • A.

      Arch Duke Franz Ferdinand

    • B.

      Tsar Nicolas II

    • C.

      Patrick Dangerfield

    • D.

      Kaiser Wilhelm II

    Correct Answer
    D. Kaiser Wilhelm II
    Explanation
    Kaiser Wilhelm II was the leader of Germany at the start of World War I. He ruled from 1888 until his abdication in 1918. His aggressive foreign policies and desire for territorial expansion contributed to the tensions that eventually led to the outbreak of the war. Wilhelm II's leadership during the war was characterized by his authoritarian rule and his involvement in military decision-making, which ultimately led to Germany's defeat and his own abdication.

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  • 3. 

    Who were the 5 Major Powers?

    • A.

      Britain, France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia

    • B.

      Britain, France Germany, Austria-Hungary, Serbia

    • C.

      Britain, France, Germany, Serbia, Ottoman Empire

    • D.

      Britain, France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy

    Correct Answer
    A. Britain, France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Britain, France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia. These were the five major powers during the time period leading up to World War I. They were the dominant nations in Europe and held significant political, economic, and military influence.

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  • 4. 

    Which of these 'War Plans' existed before World War I?

    • A.

      Schlieffen Plan

    • B.

      Plan 7

    • C.

      Plan 17 and Plan 12

    • D.

      Revenge Plan 12 and Serbian Plan Sarajevo

    Correct Answer
    A. Schlieffen Plan
    Explanation
    The Schlieffen Plan is the correct answer because it was a German military strategy developed in the early 20th century, before World War I. It was created by Count Alfred von Schlieffen, the Chief of the German General Staff, and aimed to quickly defeat France in the west and then turn to fight Russia in the east. The plan relied on a rapid and decisive invasion of France through Belgium, but ultimately failed due to various factors, leading to a prolonged and devastating war.

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  • 5. 

    Imperialism was important to empires because it gave the nation access to:

    • A.

      Markets for surplus goods and resources

    • B.

      Tourist spots and sporting opportunities

    • C.

      Other languages

    • D.

      Other cultures

    Correct Answer
    A. Markets for surplus goods and resources
    Explanation
    Imperialism was important to empires because it provided them with access to markets for surplus goods and resources. Through colonization and the establishment of colonies, empires were able to expand their markets and sell their surplus goods to other regions. Additionally, imperialism allowed empires to gain control over valuable resources in colonized territories, which further enhanced their economic power and influence. By exploiting these markets and resources, empires could strengthen their economies and maintain their dominance in the global arena.

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  • 6. 

    What is a Dreadnought?

    • A.

      A 'B' Class tank used in World War I

    • B.

      A type of flamethrower

    • C.

      A British battleship

    • D.

      A three winged German aeroplane

    Correct Answer
    C. A British battleship
    Explanation
    A dreadnought refers to a British battleship. The term was originally used to describe a specific type of battleship that was developed by the British Royal Navy in the early 20th century. These battleships were characterized by their large size, powerful armament, and all-big-gun design. The introduction of dreadnoughts revolutionized naval warfare and had a significant impact on the arms race between major naval powers during that time.

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  • 7. 

    Who was assassinated on 28th July 1914 in Sarajevo?

    • A.

      Count Alfred Von Schlieffen

    • B.

      Emperor Franz-Joseph

    • C.

      Wilfred Owen

    • D.

      Arch-Duke Franz Ferdinand

    Correct Answer
    D. Arch-Duke Franz Ferdinand
    Explanation
    Arch-Duke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated on 28th July 1914 in Sarajevo.

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  • 8. 

    What was known as the 'powder keg of Europe'?

    • A.

      Austria-Hungary

    • B.

      The Balkans

    • C.

      Russia

    • D.

      France

    Correct Answer
    B. The Balkans
    Explanation
    The term "powder keg of Europe" refers to the Balkans because it was a region in southeastern Europe that was known for its volatile political situation and ethnic tensions during the early 20th century. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in 1914, which triggered the start of World War I, took place in the Balkans. The region was seen as a potential flashpoint for conflict due to its complex mix of different ethnic and religious groups, territorial disputes, and competing national aspirations.

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  • 9. 

    Many men wanted to enlist in 1914 before the war quickly ended. Many thought the war would:

    • A.

      Be over before the Crows won a flag

    • B.

      Be finished once Australia joined the fighting

    • C.

      Be over in 2 weeks

    • D.

      Be over by Christmas

    Correct Answer
    D. Be over by Christmas
    Explanation
    Many men wanted to enlist in 1914 before the war quickly ended because they believed that the war would be over by Christmas. This belief was common among people at that time, as they underestimated the duration and intensity of the conflict. They hoped that by joining the war effort early, they could contribute to the victory and return home to their families in time for the Christmas celebrations. However, this optimistic expectation was proven wrong as the war prolonged for several years, causing immense devastation and loss of lives.

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  • 10. 

    After the assassination, Austria-Hungary presented a list of demands to: 

    • A.

      Russia

    • B.

      Serbia

    • C.

      France

    • D.

      Germany

    Correct Answer
    B. Serbia
    Explanation
    After the assassination, Austria-Hungary presented a list of demands to Serbia. This is because Serbia was believed to be involved in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which triggered the conflict. Austria-Hungary wanted Serbia to accept responsibility for the assassination and comply with their demands, which ultimately led to the start of World War I.

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  • 11. 

    It has been argued that some leaders had internal issues to deal with and a 'short' war could be a useful distraction for their people. Which of the four options below were not internal issues in 1914?

    • A.

      Rising unemployment

    • B.

      Increased numbers joining trade unions

    • C.

      Increased numbers of radical political parties

    • D.

      Proliferation of jazz music

    Correct Answer
    D. Proliferation of jazz music
  • 12. 

    Who were the triple entente?

    • A.

      Britain, France, Russia

    • B.

      Britain, France, Serbia

    • C.

      France, Belgium, Russia

    • D.

      Russia, Italy, france

    Correct Answer
    A. Britain, France, Russia
    Explanation
    The triple entente refers to the alliance formed between Britain, France, and Russia before World War I. This alliance aimed to counter the growing power of Germany and Austria-Hungary. Britain, France, and Russia saw the need to work together to maintain a balance of power in Europe and protect their own interests.

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  • 13. 

    Who were the Triple Alliance?

    • A.

      Germany, France and Russia

    • B.

      Germany, Austria and Hungary

    • C.

      Germany, Italy and Austria-Hungary

    • D.

      Germany, Serbia and Turkey

    Correct Answer
    C. Germany, Italy and Austria-Hungary
    Explanation
    The Triple Alliance was a military alliance formed in 1882 between Germany, Italy, and Austria-Hungary. This alliance was primarily aimed at countering the growing influence of France and Russia in Europe. It provided mutual support and defense in case of an attack from any other country. The Triple Alliance played a significant role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of Europe leading up to World War I.

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  • 14. 

    Alliances caused ........

    • A.

      A general feeling of security

    • B.

      An opportunity for trade and investment

    • C.

      An exchange of culture and languages

    • D.

      Tension and suspicion

    Correct Answer
    D. Tension and suspicion
    Explanation
    Alliances caused tension and suspicion because they often involved countries forming defensive partnerships against other nations. This led to a sense of competition and distrust among nations, as they were constantly wary of the intentions and actions of their allies and potential enemies. Additionally, alliances often created a divide between different groups of countries, leading to rivalries and conflicts.

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  • 15. 

    The growing influence of the military in politics was a factor that increased the possibility of hostilities in 1914

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The growing influence of the military in politics during that time period suggests that military leaders had a greater say in political decision-making. This increased influence could have potentially led to more aggressive and confrontational foreign policies, thereby increasing the likelihood of hostilities in 1914.

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  • 16. 

    Military spending in Europe in the decades before 1914 increased by 300%

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement suggests that military spending in Europe before 1914 increased by 300%. This means that the amount of money allocated for military purposes during that period was three times higher compared to the previous years. This increase in military spending indicates a significant focus and investment in preparing for potential conflicts or maintaining military strength.

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  • 17. 

    Germany was a young nation. It wanted an Empire. it wanted its .....

    • A.

      'place at the dinner table'

    • B.

      'obligations fulfilled'

    • C.

      'place in the sun'

    • D.

      'colonies recognised by the League of Nations'

    Correct Answer
    C. 'place in the sun'
    Explanation
    Germany, being a young nation, desired to establish itself as a powerful and influential country. The phrase "place in the sun" suggests that Germany sought recognition and respect on the international stage, similar to other major colonial powers of the time. By acquiring colonies and expanding its empire, Germany aimed to secure its position among the world's leading nations and fulfill its aspirations for power and influence.

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  • 18. 

    Which old empire, which had spread as far as Poland, was collapsing in the Balkans and causing tensions between nations in that region?

    • A.

      Ottoman Empire

    • B.

      Constantine Empire

    • C.

      Slavic Empire

    • D.

      Persian Empire

    Correct Answer
    A. Ottoman Empire
    Explanation
    The Ottoman Empire is the correct answer because it fits the description of an old empire that had expanded as far as Poland and was experiencing collapse in the Balkans. The Ottoman Empire was a powerful and expansive empire that spanned across Europe, Asia, and Africa at its height. However, by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was in decline and facing internal conflicts and external pressures, particularly in the Balkans, which ultimately led to its collapse. This collapse caused tensions between the various nations in the region as they sought to assert their independence and territorial claims.

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  • 19. 

    Imperialism and Colonialism are very similar ideologies and policies.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Imperialism and colonialism are indeed very similar ideologies and policies. Both involve the domination and control of one country or group of people over another. In both cases, the dominant power seeks to exploit the resources and labor of the colonized or imperialized territory for its own benefit. The main difference between the two is that colonialism refers specifically to the establishment and maintenance of colonies, while imperialism can also involve other forms of domination and control, such as indirect rule or economic influence. Overall, the similarities between imperialism and colonialism make it accurate to say that they are very similar ideologies and policies.

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  • 20. 

    The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary was the sole cause of World War I.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    B. False
    Explanation
    While the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the immediate trigger that set the events of World War I in motion, it was not the sole cause. Underlying tensions and conflicts had been brewing for years among European powers. These included:  
    Nationalism: Strong feelings of national pride and rivalry fueled tensions, particularly in the Balkans.  
    Imperialism: Competition for colonies and resources created friction between nations.  
    Militarism: The arms race and a belief in military strength contributed to a climate of suspicion and aggression.  
    Alliance System: A complex network of alliances obligated countries to defend each other, escalating a local conflict into a global war.  
    The assassination acted as a catalyst, igniting these underlying tensions and leading to a chain reaction of declarations of war.

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  • Current Version
  • Oct 15, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Nov 29, 2017
    Quiz Created by
    Laura
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