Historical significance of 1914

The year 1914 is historically significant because it marks the start of World War I, a massive conflict involving many countries worldwide. The war was triggered by complex alliances, political tensions, and the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria. Its outbreak dramatically changed global geopolitics, leading to the collapse of empires, significant casualties, and profound social and technological changes that shaped the 20th century. The events of 1914 set in motion a series of developments that influenced international relations, borders, and societies for decades to come.