Question

Which event served as the catalyst for the outbreak of World War One?

• A. Germany's invasion of Poland
• B. The sinking of the Lusitania
• C. The Tsar's refusal of an offer to visit Germany
• D. The assassination of Archduke Francis Ferdinand

Hint:

Focus on key historic events that directly led to major wars; assassinations often serve as immediate triggers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Overview of WWI triggers
World War One started in 1914 due to a combination of alliances, militarism, and nationalism.
Step 2: The immediate catalyst
The assassination of Archduke Francis Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary on June 28, 1914, by a Serbian nationalist in Sarajevo is considered the direct trigger that set off the war.
Step 3: Other options
- Germany’s invasion of Poland was a trigger for World War Two, not One.
- The sinking of the Lusitania was a factor for the US entering WWI but not the initial cause.
- The Tsar’s refusal to visit Germany is not a major historic event related to WWI’s outbreak.
Hence, Option (D) is correct.