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All questions of The First World War for Class 10 Exam

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Which country initially remained neutral during the early stages of World War I but later joined the conflict against Germany?
  • a)
    Italy
  • b)
    Russia
  • c)
    The United States
  • d)
    Japan
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sonakshi rane answered
Overview of Italy's Position in World War I
Initially, Italy maintained a position of neutrality at the outbreak of World War I in 1914. This decision stemmed from a combination of political, social, and military considerations.
Reasons for Neutrality
- Alliance Obligations: Italy was part of the Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary but felt that the alliance did not obligate them to join a war initiated by Austria-Hungary.
- Public Sentiment: The Italian populace had mixed feelings about joining the conflict, with many opposing involvement due to the war's implications.
- Territorial Ambitions: Italy aimed to expand its territory, particularly in regions inhabited by ethnic Italians, which were under Austro-Hungarian control.
Shift to War
By 1915, Italy's position changed due to several factors:
- Secret Alliances: Italy signed the Treaty of London in April 1915, promising to join the Allies in exchange for territorial gains, including parts of Austria-Hungary.
- Nationalism: A surge in nationalist sentiment encouraged the government to enter the war to secure Italy's place as a significant European power.
- Military Strategy: The Italian military believed that joining the Allies would provide a better chance for victory and post-war advantages.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Italy declared war on Austria-Hungary on May 23, 1915, and later on Germany, marking its transition from neutrality to active involvement in World War I. This decision was influenced by a desire for territorial expansion and a shift in public and political sentiment.

What was the significance of the Battle of the Aisne during World War I?
  • a)
    It marked the beginning of trench warfare on the Western Front.
  • b)
    It led to the capture of Paris by the German forces.
  • c)
    It resulted in the surrender of the Belgian army.
  • d)
    It saw the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) launching a successful offensive.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Anirban Datta answered
Significance of the Battle of the Aisne during World War I:
The Battle of the Aisne was a significant event during World War I, as it marked the beginning of trench warfare on the Western Front.
Beginning of Trench Warfare:
- The Battle of the Aisne, which took place from September 12 to September 15, 1914, was one of the first major battles of World War I.
- Both the Allied forces, including the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) and the French army, and the German forces began digging trenches along the Aisne River to protect themselves from enemy fire.
- This marked the transition from mobile warfare to static trench warfare on the Western Front, where both sides dug intricate networks of trenches that stretched for miles.
Impact on the War:
- The establishment of trenches at the Battle of the Aisne had a lasting impact on the course of the war.
- Trench warfare became the dominant form of combat on the Western Front, leading to years of stalemate and brutal fighting in harsh conditions.
- The Battle of the Aisne set the stage for future battles, such as the Battle of Verdun and the Battle of the Somme, where trench warfare would define the conflict.
Conclusion:
The Battle of the Aisne was a pivotal moment in World War I, as it marked the shift from mobile warfare to entrenched positions on the Western Front. This new form of warfare would shape the course of the conflict and lead to years of brutal fighting in the trenches.

What event marked the beginning of the "Race to the Sea" during World War I?
  • a)
    The Battle of Ypres
  • b)
    The Battle of the Aisne
  • c)
    The fall of Antwerp
  • d)
    The capture of Verdun
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

T.S Academy answered
The correct answer is Option A: The Battle of Ypres. The "Race to the Sea" began with the Battle of Ypres, where both sides extended their trench networks northwestward until reaching the coast.

What event marked the beginning of the largest battle of World War I and possibly the largest battle in human history up to that time?
  • a)
    The Battle of Liège
  • b)
    The First Battle of the Marne
  • c)
    The Battle of Ypres
  • d)
    The Battle of the Aisne
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Academic Studio answered
The correct answer is Option B: The First Battle of the Marne. This battle, which took place from September 6 to September 11, 1914, marked the beginning of the largest battle of World War I, involving more than two million troops.

According to the text, what made the Eastern Front different from the Western Front?
  • a)
    Greater distances
  • b)
    Differences in equipment and quality of armies
  • c)
    Fluidity of the front
  • d)
    All of the above
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Valor Academy answered
The text states that on the Eastern Front, there were greater distances between the opposing armies, as well as significant differences in their equipment and quality. This resulted in a fluidity of the front that was lacking in the west. Therefore, all of the options mentioned are correct.

What offensive action did the Russian commander in chief, Grand Duke Nicholas, take at the urging of the French?
  • a)
    A pincer movement against West Prussia
  • b)
    A pincer movement against East Prussia
  • c)
    A direct attack on the German 8th Army
  • d)
    A defensive strategy along the front lines
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Valor Academy answered
The text states that Grand Duke Nicholas, urged by the French, took offensive action by launching a pincer movement against East Prussia. This involved two Russian armies converging on the German 8th Army from the east and the south. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

What experimental tactic did Sir Douglas Haig's 1st Army attempt at Neuve-Chapelle in March 1915?
  • a)
    A surprise attack following a short but intense artillery bombardment.
  • b)
    A prolonged artillery bombardment to soften enemy trenches.
  • c)
    Sending infantry ahead of the artillery barrage.
  • d)
    Using gas cylinders to disorient the enemy.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

K.L Institute answered
Sir Douglas Haig's 1st Army attempted an experimental tactic at Neuve-Chapelle in March 1915, where they opened an intense artillery bombardment on a 2,000-yard front and then, after 35 minutes, lengthened its range. The attacking British infantry, behind the second screen of shells, could overrun the trenches ravaged by the first. This tactic aimed to create a surprise attack immediately following a short but intense artillery bombardment. Unfortunately, it faced challenges in execution, such as a shortage of munitions and a delay in launching the infantry assault.

What was the immediate result of the experimental tactic at Neuve-Chapelle in March 1915?
  • a)
    Loss of life due to inadequate second barrage and a delay in launching the infantry assault.
  • b)
    A significant territorial gain by the British.
  • c)
    The capture of German high command.
  • d)
    Complete surprise and surrender of the German forces.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Lakshya Ias answered
The immediate result of the experimental tactic at Neuve-Chapelle in March 1915 was the loss of life. The tactic faced challenges, including an inadequate second barrage and a delay in launching the infantry assault. These factors allowed the Germans to overcome their initial surprise and rally their resistance, resulting in significant casualties.

What event led to the United States considering arming its merchant vessels in 1917?
  • a)
    The sinking of the Lusitania
  • b)
    The publication of the Zimmermann Telegram
  • c)
    The Battle of Jutland
  • d)
    The Russian Revolution
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Lohit Matani answered
The event that led to the United States considering arming its merchant vessels in 1917 was "the publication of the Zimmermann Telegram." This intercepted telegram, which revealed Germany's proposal to Mexico to become its ally against the United States, heightened concerns about the safety of American ships and citizens, prompting discussions about arming merchant vessels for protection.

What was the main objective of Germany's attack on Verdun in 1916?
  • a)
    To capture Paris and end the war
  • b)
    To bleed France of its manpower
  • c)
    To seize control of key French forts
  • d)
    To gain access to British supply lines
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Capstone Ias Learning answered
The main objective of Germany's attack on Verdun in 1916 was to "bleed France of its manpower." German General Falkenhayn believed that by choosing Verdun as a target, where the French would be compelled to defend it at all costs, he could inflict heavy casualties on the French army, weakening their overall fighting capability and potentially leading to France's collapse.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Jutland in 1916?
  • a)
    The British navy achieved a decisive victory
  • b)
    The German navy achieved a decisive victory
  • c)
    Both sides claimed victory, but the outcome was inconclusive
  • d)
    The British navy was severely damaged
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ias Masters answered
The outcome of the Battle of Jutland in 1916 was inconclusive. Both sides, the British and the German navies, claimed some degree of victory, but the battle did not result in a decisive victory for either side. The battle was the largest naval engagement of World War I, and while the British navy suffered more significant losses in terms of ships and personnel, the German High Seas Fleet did not decisively defeat the British Grand Fleet.

What was the impact of Brusilov's offensive on the Eastern Front in 1916?
  • a)
    It resulted in the capture of Vienna
  • b)
    It led to the complete conquest of Galicia
  • c)
    It diverted German strength from the Western Front
  • d)
    It resulted in a Russian victory in the Eastern Front
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Lohit Matani answered
The impact of Brusilov's offensive on the Eastern Front in 1916 was primarily that it "diverted German strength from the Western Front." While the offensive achieved some initial success and inflicted significant losses on the Austro-Hungarian forces, its main strategic objective was to draw German resources away from the intense battles occurring on the Western Front, such as Verdun and the Somme.

What event prompted the United States to sever diplomatic relations with Germany in 1917?
  • a)
    The Russian Revolution
  • b)
    The publication of the Zimmermann Telegram
  • c)
    The sinking of the Lusitania
  • d)
    The Battle of Jutland
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Academic Studio answered
The United States severed diplomatic relations with Germany in 1917 in response to "the publication of the Zimmermann Telegram." This intercepted telegram revealed Germany's proposal to Mexico to become its ally against the United States and significantly strained U.S.-German relations, leading to the diplomatic break.

What event in 1916 led to the United States severing diplomatic relations with Germany?
  • a)
    The publication of the Zimmermann Telegram
  • b)
    The sinking of the Lusitania
  • c)
    The Battle of Verdun
  • d)
    The Russian offensive near Lake Naroch
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev UPSC answered
The event in 1916 that led to the United States severing diplomatic relations with Germany was the publication of the Zimmermann Telegram. This telegram, intercepted and decoded by the British, revealed Germany's proposal to Mexico to become its ally in the event of the United States entering the war against Germany. The contents of the telegram, including a plan to help Mexico regain territories from the United States, significantly strained U.S.-German relations and contributed to the U.S. decision to sever diplomatic ties.

Who led a successful Arab revolt against the Turks in the Hejaz region?
  • a)
    T.E. Lawrence.
  • b)
    General Luigi Cadorna.
  • c)
    General Maurice Sarrail.
  • d)
    Sir Archibald Murray.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Master Training Institute answered
T.E. Lawrence, a British military officer, led a successful Arab revolt against the Turks in the Hejaz region. His efforts played a crucial role in disrupting Turkish control in the Arabian hinterland.

What was the outcome of the Battle of the Dogger Bank?
  • a)
    German victory
  • b)
    British victory
  • c)
    Stalemate
  • d)
    Both sides suffered heavy losses
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Capstone Ias Learning answered
The text states that in the Battle of the Dogger Bank, the German cruiser Blücher was sunk and two other cruisers were damaged before the Germans could escape. This signifies a victory for the British. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Who was the German commander known for his successful defense in German East Africa?
  • a)
    Admiral Franz von Hipper
  • b)
    Admiral Graf Maximilian von Spee
  • c)
    Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck
  • d)
    J.C. Smuts
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ias Masters answered
The text mentions that Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck was the German commander known for his successful defense in German East Africa. He was able to tie down a large number of Allied troops despite being outnumbered. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

What was the German strategy in the war at sea?
  • a)
    Engage in direct confrontation with the British navy
  • b)
    Gradually destroy British naval superiority through mines and submarines
  • c)
    Focus on protecting German trade routes
  • d)
    Avoid any naval conflicts and focus on land battles
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Goel UPSC Coaching Center answered
The text mentions that the German strategy in the war at sea was to gradually destroy British naval superiority by using mines and submarines. They hoped that this would eventually lead to a more equal confrontation with the British navy. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

What was the outcome of the Italian offensives on the Isonzo in 1916?
  • a)
    Italy achieved significant territorial gains.
  • b)
    The Austrians surrendered to Italy.
  • c)
    Italy sustained heavy casualties with minimal gains.
  • d)
    The Isonzo front remained unchanged.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Master Training Institute answered
The outcome of the Italian offensives on the Isonzo in 1916 was that Italy sustained heavy casualties with minimal territorial gains. Despite several attempts, the Battles of the Isonzo did not yield significant progress for the Italians on the front.

What did the Central Powers aim to achieve by launching an attack on Serbia in October 1915?
  • a)
    To establish secure rail communications with Turkey.
  • b)
    To capture the Baku oilfields in Azerbaijan.
  • c)
    To encircle the Russian armies in Poland.
  • d)
    To secure a major victory over the British in Mesopotamia.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Divey Sethi answered
The Central Powers aimed to achieve secure rail communications with Turkey by launching an attack on Serbia in October 1915. This campaign had strategic importance for them, as it allowed for better logistical connections with their Ottoman allies.

What led to the United States considering the use of conscription in 1916?
  • a)
    The sinking of the Lusitania
  • b)
    The German announcement of unrestricted submarine warfare
  • c)
    The Battle of Jutland
  • d)
    The Russian offensive near Lake Naroch
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ias Masters answered
The United States considered the use of conscription in 1916 primarily due to "the German announcement of unrestricted submarine warfare." This policy change by Germany, which allowed their submarines to sink ships without warning, raised concerns about the safety of American citizens and ships, prompting the U.S. to prepare for potential military involvement in World War I.

What did the Allied commands initially believe was the key to reducing a trench line prior to an assault after the Neuve-Chapelle experiment?
  • a)
    Mere volume of shellfire.
  • b)
    Swift infantry charges.
  • c)
    Surprise attacks without artillery bombardment.
  • d)
    Gas attacks.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Lakshya Ias answered
Initially, the Allied commands believed that the key to reducing a trench line prior to an assault was the mere volume of shellfire. They drew a superficial deduction from the Neuve-Chapelle experiment, emphasizing the quantity of artillery fire over the tactics used in the attack. It wasn't until 1917 that they revisited the Neuve-Chapelle method.

What was the consequence of the Germans' use of chlorine gas at Ypres in April 1915?
  • a)
    The agonized defenders surrendered immediately.
  • b)
    Chaotic flight of the defenders but failure to exploit success.
  • c)
    The Allies' front was pushed back significantly.
  • d)
    The gas had no effect on the defenders.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

BT Educators answered
The consequence of the Germans' use of chlorine gas at Ypres in April 1915 was chaotic flight of the defenders. However, the German high command had failed to provide adequate reserves to exploit the unforeseen success of the gas attack. As a result, by the end of a month-long battle, the Allies' front was only slightly retracted.

When did the Germans first use chlorine gas on the Western Front, and where was it employed?
  • a)
    On April 22, 1915, in the Ypres salient.
  • b)
    On November 11, 1918, in the Ardennes.
  • c)
    On July 1, 1916, in the Battle of the Somme.
  • d)
    On August 4, 1914, in Alsace-Lorraine.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

BT Educators answered
The Germans first used chlorine gas on the Western Front on April 22, 1915, in the Ypres salient. However, they made the mistake of discharging it from cylinders rather than artillery shells, limiting its full potential impact.

What was the key objective of the German submarine campaign in 1916?
  • a)
    To blockade British ports
  • b)
    To sink British battleships
  • c)
    To protect German merchant vessels
  • d)
    To disrupt Allied shipping
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

K.L Institute answered
The key objective of the German submarine campaign in 1916 was "to disrupt Allied shipping." The use of unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany aimed to sink merchant and cargo ships of the Allied powers, particularly those of Great Britain, in an effort to disrupt their supply lines and weaken their war effort.

What event in 1916 led to the United States considering the use of conscription?
  • a)
    The Battle of Jutland
  • b)
    The German announcement of unrestricted submarine warfare
  • c)
    The Russian offensive near Lake Naroch
  • d)
    The British offensive on the Somme
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Capstone Ias Learning answered
In 1916, the United States considered the use of conscription due to the German announcement of unrestricted submarine warfare. This policy change by Germany, which allowed their submarines to sink ships without warning, played a significant role in shaping the events leading to the U.S. entry into World War I. It raised concerns about the safety of American merchant vessels and citizens traveling on them, ultimately influencing the U.S. decision to enter the war.

What was the main objective of Brusilov's offensive on the Eastern Front in 1916?
  • a)
    To capture Vienna
  • b)
    To divert German strength from the Western Front
  • c)
    To gain control of the Black Sea coast
  • d)
    To conquer all of Galicia
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Academic Studio answered
The main objective of Brusilov's offensive on the Eastern Front in 1916 was "to divert German strength from the Western Front." The Russians launched this offensive in the hope of drawing German forces away from the Western Front, where intense battles like Verdun and the Somme were taking place. While Brusilov achieved some initial success, the overall impact of the offensive was to divert German resources rather than achieve significant territorial gains.

Which event led to the hardening of neutral countries' outlook toward Germany?
  • a)
    German submarine attacks on neutral ships
  • b)
    British blockade of Germany
  • c)
    Sinking of the Lusitania
  • d)
    German attack on the Falkland Islands
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev UPSC answered
The text mentions that the sinking of the Lusitania, a British liner with many civilian passengers, including Americans, caused a wave of indignation in the United States and led to a hardening of neutral countries' outlook toward Germany. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Tannenberg?
  • a)
    Destruction of the German 8th Army
  • b)
    Destruction or capture of the Russian 2nd Army
  • c)
    Stalemate with no clear victor
  • d)
    Decisive victory for the Russian forces
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Capstone Ias Learning answered
The text states that the outcome of the Battle of Tannenberg was the destruction or capture of almost the entire Russian 2nd Army. This signifies that the Russian forces suffered a significant defeat. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

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