World War I: A Pivotal Moment in History

World War I, also known as the Great War, unfolded between 1914 and 1918. This
international conflict embroiled most of Europe, along with Russia, the United
States, the Middle East, and other regions. The war pitted the Central Powers—
primarily Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Turkey—against the Allies—mainly France,
Great Britain, Russia, Italy, Japan, and, from 1917, the United States. Ultimately,
the Allies emerged victorious, leading to the fall of four great imperial
dynasties: Germany, Russia, Austria-Hungary, and Turkey.

World War I was virtually unprecedented in its slaughter, carnage, and destruction.
Key events included the Gallipoli Campaign, the First Battle of the Somme, and the
Battle of Verdun. The war also witnessed the Christmas Truce and the devastating
impact of new technologies like tanks, chemical warfare, and machine guns.

The war’s aftermath was profound. It laid the groundwork for World War II,
destabilizing European society and leading to the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia.
Notably, the last surviving veterans of World War I—such as American serviceman
Frank Buckles, British-born Australian serviceman Claude Choules, and British
servicewoman Florence Green—remind us of the sacrifices made during this pivotal
moment in history12