Na 70 jaar: 'n kort oorsig van die eerste wereldoorlog (1914-1919), met besondere verwysing na die westelike front en Suid-Afrika se deelname

Abstract

In the early part of the 20th century there was a delicate balance of power prevailing among
European nations. There were also several treaties between groups of nations whereby an
attack on anyone nation would involve several groups. The spark to this powder keg
situation occurred when Arch-Duke Ferdinand was assassinated on 28 June 1914. The
Austro-Hungarians declared war on Serbia which in turn brought in Russia, Germany,
France and Great Britain. Britain's entry brought in the Commonwealth which included
South Africa. This condensed history sketches the course of "The Great War" as it became
known and highlights the role of the South African Forces.