What Happened This Year 1914

Historical Events from This Year 1914

Military & Warfare

German Victory at the Battle of Charleroi

August 21st, 1914 110 years ago

The Battle of Charleroi marked a significant German victory against French forces. On August 21, 1914, the German army launched a successful attack across the River Sambre, effectively preempting a French offensive planned for the same area. The battle unfolded as the Germans sought to secure their position and disrupt French advances, leading to a decisive outcome that shifted the momentum in favor of Germany during the early stages of World War I.

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Military & Warfare

The Great Retreat of Allied Forces Begins

August 23rd, 1914 110 years ago

The British Expeditionary Force and the French Fifth Army commenced their strategic retreat in the face of advancing German forces. This critical decision was made to preserve their fighting capabilities after suffering defeats at the hands of the fast-moving German Army. Coordinated movements were essential as both armies aimed to retreat towards the River Seine while maintaining open lines of communication and supply, thereby avoiding encirclement and further losses.

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Military & Warfare

Japan Enters World War I Against Germany

August 23rd, 1914 110 years ago

Japan declared war on Germany, marking its entry into World War I. This action was part of Japan's ambition to expand its influence in Asia and the Pacific. Following the outbreak of the war, Japan quickly took an aggressive stance, targeting German colonies in China and the Pacific. The decision stemmed from a desire to seize opportunities while European powers were engaged in a global conflict.

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Military & Warfare

First Allied Victory: Battle of Cer

August 24th, 1914 110 years ago

The Battle of Cer marked a crucial early victory for the Allies during World War I, occurring between August 15 and 24, 1914. The Serbian army faced off against the Austro-Hungarian forces near the Cer Mountain in Serbia. Under the command of General Stepa Stepanović, the Serbians successfully repelled the Austro-Hungarian offensive, showcasing their military capability and resolve. This victory boosted the morale of the Serbian troops and the Allied forces, demonstrating that the Austro-Hungarian army could be defeated and altering early expectations of the war's outcome.

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Military & Warfare

German Troops Capture Namur Fortress

August 24th, 1914 110 years ago

German troops successfully captured the Belgian fortress of Namur, a significant stronghold during World War I. The fall of Namur occurred after intense bombardments and tactical maneuvers, showcasing the effectiveness of German military strategies early in the war. This event marked a crucial step in Germany's campaign through Belgium as they aimed to implement the Schlieffen Plan, ultimately contributing to their advance towards Paris.

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Arts & Culture

Destruction of the Leuven University Library

August 25th, 1914 110 years ago

The German Army deliberately set fire to the library of the Catholic University of Leuven, resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of unique volumes, including invaluable Gothic and Renaissance manuscripts. This act was part of the wider chaos of early World War I, as military forces sought to assert control and suppress local resistance. The library, known for its extensive collection, was located in Leuven, Belgium, and its destruction marked a profound cultural loss for the nation and European heritage.

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Military & Warfare

Japan Declares War on Austria-Hungary

August 25th, 1914 110 years ago

On August 25, 1914, Japan officially declared war on Austria-Hungary. This declaration marked Japan's alignment with the Allies during World War I. Japan sought to expand its influence in Asia and gain territories held by Austria-Hungary, particularly in the Pacific. The event occurred amidst the larger conflict of World War I, as tensions escalated and nations took sides.

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Military & Warfare

Togoland Surrendered to Allied Forces

August 26th, 1914 110 years ago

After a brief campaign lasting 20 days, the German colony of Togoland capitulated to French and British forces. This marked the first German colony to fall into Allied hands during World War I, signaling an early shift in colonial power dynamics in Africa. The operation showcased the cooperation between the British and French military forces in this endeavor, highlighting their strategic importance in the wider context of the war.

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Military & Warfare

British II Corps' Defensive Action at Le Cateau

August 26th, 1914 110 years ago

During the retreat from Mons, General Sir Horace Smith-Dorrien led the British II Corps in a successful defensive action against German forces at Le Cateau in France. Facing overwhelming odds, the British soldiers held their ground, allowing for a strategic withdrawal of the remainder of the British Expeditionary Force. This battle showcased the tenacity and discipline of British troops in the early days of World War I, marking a significant moment in the campaign against the advancing German Army.

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