Museum Display Information
The Great War 1914-1918
The War
The First World War was a result of mistrust between nations and the
fear of the growing power of Germany. The war last far longer than
anyone thought, and involved the death and suffering of millions of
people - never before had war been so horrific.
In July 1914 Austria, allied to Germany, declared war on Serbia, who at
that time was allied to Russia. Russia mobilised her forces in response,
which prompted the Germans to act. As France had signed a military
alliance with Russia, Germany would be face with a war on two fronts.
The German war plan aimed to defeat France in six weeks, and then fight
on a single front against Russia.
Britain became involved when the Germans invaded Belgium in order to
accelerate their advance into France. Britain was not prepared to see
Germany dominate Europe.
The German war plan fell behind schedule; ‘Gallant Little Belgium’ held
the German advance. The British Expeditionary Force cross the Channel
and supported the French Army. Within days of the outbreak of war men
from the King’s Own were serving in France.
The Germans were held back at the Battle of the Mons, but the Germans
were too powerful, and forced a British retreat. The Germans were within
20 miles of Paris, and a major effort was made save France. Troops
travelled in lorries, buses and even taxis to get to the battle. The
Battle of the Marne, between 6th September and 10th September, 1914, was
the counter attack, and this battle saved the French from defeat.
On both sides of the front line troops dug in. The Germans established
strong defensive positions, and trench warfare began. From the Channel
coast to the Swiss border two armies dug in and faced each other over
‘no man’s land’. Stalemate had been achieved.
© Images are copyright, Trustees of the King's Own Royal Regiment Museum.
You must seek permission prior to
publication of any of our images.
Only a proportion of our collections
are on display at anyone time. Certain items are on loan for display
in other institutions. An appointment is required to consult any of
our collections which are held in store.
