When did World War I begin?

World War I began on August 1, 1914, following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, which set off a chain of events leading to widespread conflict. The date marks the official start of hostilities among the major powers of Europe, which were divided into two main alliances: the Allies and the Central Powers. This period saw nations mobilizing their armies and declaring war, eventually drawing in many countries and leading to a global conflict that lasted until November 11, 1918. Understanding this date is crucial, as it establishes the context of events that shaped not only the war itself but also modern geopolitics. The other dates presented relate to different historical events, such as the Spanish-American War and the end of World War I, thus highlighting the significance of August 1914 as the crucial starting point of World War I.