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The First World War, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. It involved most of the world’s great powers, organized into two opposing alliances: the Allies (comprising of France, Russia, and DW News Today the United Kingdom) and the Central Powers (comprising of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy). The war caused massive destruction and loss of life and had far-reaching consequences that shaped the 20th century.
The origins of the war can be traced back to the complex web of alliances and rivalries that existed in Europe in the early 20th century. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary by a Serbian nationalist in June 1914 was the spark that ignited the conflict. Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, and the conflict rapidly escalated as other countries were drawn into the fray. The war quickly became a global conflict as the European powers mobilized their colonies and territories in Asia and Africa.
The United States also joined the war in 1917, tipping the balance in favor of the Allies. The war was fought on multiple fronts, with some of the most famous battles taking place in Europe.
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