AQA History: World War 1 - Key Battles and Events

AQA History: World War 1 - Key Battles and Events

This page provides a comprehensive guide to the key battles and events of World War 1, as assessed by the AQA History specification. We'll explore the major conflicts, significant events, and the wider impacts of the war on the world. Whether you're studying for your GCSE exams, A-Level exams, or simply want to learn more about this pivotal period in history, this page has you covered.

Key Battles

World War 1 saw some of the largest and bloodiest battles in human history. Here are a few key battles you should be familiar with for your AQA History exams:

• **Battle of the Marne (September 1914):** This battle marked the end of the German advance towards Paris and the beginning of trench warfare.
• **Battle of Verdun (February-December 1916):** This brutal and protracted battle is remembered for its intense fighting and massive casualties on both sides.
• **Battle of the Somme (July-November 1916):** A bloody and costly battle for the Allies, remembered for its massive casualties and the use of new technologies like tanks.
• **Third Battle of Ypres (July-November 1917):** This battle saw the introduction of poison gas warfare and the use of the infamous "Passchendaele mud."

Significant Events

Beyond the battles, several significant events shaped the course of the war. These include:

• **The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (June 1914):** This event sparked the chain of events that led to the outbreak of war.
• **The sinking of the Lusitania (May 1915):** This event, where a German U-boat sank a British passenger liner, increased tensions between Germany and the United States.
• **The Russian Revolution (1917):** This event significantly impacted the war effort, leading to Russia's withdrawal from the conflict.
• **The Armistice of Compiègne (November 1918):** This agreement officially ended the war and brought about a period of peace, albeit a fragile one.

AQA History Resources

To help you prepare for your AQA History exams, we have gathered a range of resources:

• **AQA History World War 1 Paper:** This page provides information about the structure of the AQA History World War 1 paper, including the type of questions you'll be asked.
• **AQA History Past Papers WW1:** You can access a range of past papers from the AQA website, allowing you to practice answering questions under exam conditions.
• **Topic Guide:** We've created a comprehensive topic guide that covers all the key concepts, individuals, and battles covered in the AQA History World War 1 syllabus.

By exploring these resources and using the information provided on this page, you'll be well-equipped to tackle your AQA History exams with confidence. Remember to always analyze primary and secondary sources, and consider the different perspectives and interpretations of the war.