The First World War... what is it? Normally, when you think about it, you must ask yourself how the hell am I still alive! World War I, also known as the Great War, took place from 1914 to 1918 in most parts of Europe. In this informative essay, I will talk about the characteristics, results, ending and how World War I changed the lives of Europeans. Before the war began, European countries felt a force pushing them toward war. As these feelings began to rise, the major European powers began to form alliances. The first alliance was made up of Germany, Italy and Austria-Hungary, they called themselves the Triple Alliances. The second alliance consisted of France, Great Britain and Russia and called itself the Triple Entente. International tensions begin to rise between European countries. Every country tries to prove that it is superior to other countries. A rise in nationalism within certain countries. During the war, countries created new weapons and accelerated technological advancements. These creations included rapid machine guns, artillery guns, aircraft, tanks, poison gas, submarines, etc. The war also had an impact on the way people lived their lives. Before the war, citizens of each country felt temporary relief from their internal divisions. Many men enlisted in the military voluntarily, and women supported them every step of the way. During the war, foreigners received harsh treatment and were forced to work for the country they were in. They were also exposed to brutal conditions and were mistreated. Resources were limited since most supplies are sent to soldiers at war. Many women had to work in factories to...... middle of newspaper ......ar on Russia. Russia asked France for help. Germany demanded that France not intervene in the war. When France opposed Germany's demands; Germany declared war on France. While alliances were being formed, Britain decided to remain a neutral country and not take sides or interfere in the war. Germany, however, changed their minds. The German army created a plan that was supposed to be able to defeat Russia and France in a single battle. This plan was called the Schlieffen Plan, after the general who created it, General Alfred von Schlieffen. The plan was to head towards the French army first since the Russian army is mobilizing quite slowly, then quickly turn around and head towards the Russian army. To carry out this plan, the German army had to pass through Belgium. However, Belgium had signed a treaty guaranteeing neutrality.