When Did World War I Begin and End? Key Dates Explained

Discover the exact start and end dates of World War I and learn about the pivotal events that shaped this historic conflict.

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World War I began on July 28, 1914, after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, setting off a chain of declarations of war between the major powers. The war ended on November 11, 1918, with the signing of the Armistice of Compiègne by Germany, effectively ceasing hostilities. This period marked one of the deadliest conflicts in history, fundamentally altering geopolitical dynamics and society.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What event triggered the start of World War I? World War I began after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria on June 28, 1914, which led to a series of war declarations among the major powers.
  2. When was the Armistice that ended World War I signed? The Armistice of Compiègne was signed on November 11, 1918, marking the official end of hostilities in World War I.
  3. How long did World War I last? World War I lasted a little over four years, from July 28, 1914, to November 11, 1918.