First World War Leaders and Commanders

Tensions in Europe since the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71 – and the ascension of a new Kaiser, Wilhelm II, to the throne of the German Empire in 1888 meant power shifts. This meant the development a new understanding between France and Britain, who put aside their imperial differences in the signing of the Entente Cordiale in 1904. This agreement was followed by the Triple Ententei France, Britain and Russia, in 1907. Though not a formal alliance, the Triple Entente nevertheless brought three European nations together in a defensive understanding that gave some protection in the face of attack; with the focus on the Central Powers of Germany and Austria-Hungary – situated at the heart of Europe. Between them, in the west, was the neutral state of Belgium, its borders guaranteed by all the main European signatories, including Britain, Germany and France.