Explore Exams
Login Signup
Sign in Open App
All Exams  >   UPSC  >   UPSC Mains: World History  >   All Questions

All questions of The First World War & its aftermath for UPSC CSE Exam

Clear all your doubts with EduRev

What role did General L.G. Kornilov play in the Eastern Front during World War I?
  • a)
    He was the commander of the German forces on the Eastern Front
  • b)
    He led the successful Austrian offensive in Eastern Galicia
  • c)
    He launched an unsuccessful offensive against the Austrians in eastern Galicia
  • d)
    He was a leader of the Russian Bolshevik Revolution
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Divey Sethi answered
General L.G. Kornilov played a role in the Eastern Front during World War I by "launching an unsuccessful offensive against the Austrians in eastern Galicia" on July 1, 1917. This offensive was intended to relieve pressure on the Western Front but was ultimately halted and turned into a rout by German reinforcements.

What was the significance of the Battle of Arras in 1917?
  • a)
    It marked the British capture of Baghdad
  • b)
    It resulted in the fall of Vimy Ridge to the Canadian Corps
  • c)
    It was a successful French offensive in Champagne
  • d)
    It led to the capture of Trieste by Italian forces
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Anirban Datta answered
The Battle of Arras in 1917 was a significant military engagement during World War I. Below are the key points explaining its significance:
- Capture of Vimy Ridge:
The Battle of Arras resulted in the fall of Vimy Ridge to the Canadian Corps. Vimy Ridge was a heavily fortified German defensive position, and its capture was a major strategic achievement. The Canadian forces successfully executed meticulous planning and innovative tactics to secure victory, showcasing their military prowess.
- Strategic importance:
Vimy Ridge held great strategic importance due to its commanding view of the surrounding area. The capture of this ridge provided the Allies with a tactical advantage, allowing them to observe and control enemy movements in the region. This success boosted Allied morale and demonstrated their ability to overcome formidable obstacles.
- Impact on the war:
The victory at Vimy Ridge during the Battle of Arras marked a turning point in the war. It showcased the effectiveness of coordinated infantry and artillery attacks, influencing future military strategies. The battle also highlighted the contributions of the Canadian forces to the Allied cause, earning them recognition and respect on the world stage.
- Commemoration:
The Battle of Arras and the capture of Vimy Ridge are remembered as significant events in Canadian military history. The Vimy Ridge Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Canadian soldiers during the battle. The site serves as a symbol of national pride and remembrance for Canadians.
In conclusion, the Battle of Arras in 1917 was significant for the successful capture of Vimy Ridge by the Canadian Corps. This victory had strategic importance, impacted the course of the war, and is commemorated as a symbol of Canadian military achievement.

What was the German offensive strategy during the offensives on the Western Front?
  • a)
    Bypass machine-gun nests and points of strong resistance
  • b)
    Wait for reinforcements before continuing the advance
  • c)
    Focus on capturing observation posts
  • d)
    Use poison gas and smoke shells in the initial artillery bombardments
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Lakshya Ias answered
The German offensive strategy during the offensives on the Western Front was to bypass machine-gun nests and other points of strong resistance instead of waiting for reinforcements to clear them. This allowed for a continuous advance in the direction of least enemy resistance.

What was the impact of the Bolshevik Revolution of November 1917 on Russia's participation in World War I?
  • a)
    It led to a renewed Russian offensive against the Central Powers
  • b)
    It resulted in Russia signing a separate peace treaty with the Central Powers
  • c)
    It strengthened Russian resolve to continue the war
  • d)
    It caused the collapse of the Russian government but had no immediate impact on the war
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Master Training Institute answered
The impact of the Bolshevik Revolution of November 1917 on Russia's participation in World War I was that it "resulted in Russia signing a separate peace treaty with the Central Powers." The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk, signed on March 3, 1918, led to the withdrawal of Soviet Russia from the war and recognized the independence of several nations from former Russian territories.

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.

Which front saw the German forces constructing the "Hindenburg Line" in response to the Allies' offensive plans in 1917?
  • a)
    Eastern Front
  • b)
    Western Front
  • c)
    Italian Front
  • d)
    Balkan Front
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Valor Academy answered
The front where the German forces constructed the "Hindenburg Line" in response to the Allies' offensive plans in 1917 was the "Western Front." The Hindenburg Line was a fortified defensive position constructed by the Germans to consolidate their defenses in the face of anticipated Allied offensives on the Western Front.

What was the impact of the sinking of merchant ships by German U-boats on the Allies' war effort?
  • a)
    It weakened the Allies' military capabilities
  • b)
    It had no significant impact on the war
  • c)
    It led to a shortage of naval escorts
  • d)
    It threatened the Allies' ability to sustain the war
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev UPSC answered
The sinking of merchant ships by German U-boats had a significant impact on the Allies' war effort as it "threatened the Allies' ability to sustain the war." The U-boat campaign aimed to disrupt the flow of vital supplies and munitions to Great Britain, potentially forcing the Allies to surrender if it continued successfully.

Who was the British commander in chief responsible for the military operations in Mesopotamia during World War I?
  • a)
    General R.-G. Nivelle
  • b)
    General Luigi Capello
  • c)
    General John J. Pershing
  • d)
    Sir Frederick Stanley Maude
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Spectrum Coaching Institute answered
The British commander in chief responsible for the military operations in Mesopotamia during World War I was "Sir Frederick Stanley Maude." He played a crucial role in restoring British morale and achieving victories in Mesopotamia, including the capture of Baghdad in March 1917.

What significant development occurred in naval operations in 1917 that helped counter the German U-boat campaign?
  • a)
    Use of hydrophones and depth charges
  • b)
    Introduction of aircraft carriers
  • c)
    Implementation of naval blockades
  • d)
    Formation of naval alliances
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

K.L Institute answered
A significant development in naval operations in 1917 that helped counter the German U-boat campaign was the "use of hydrophones and depth charges." These technologies improved the effectiveness of anti-submarine warfare and contributed to the gradual containment and defeat of the U-boat campaign by the Allies.

Which U.S. president played a significant role in formulating and advocating for the war aims of the Allies and the United States during World War I?
  • a)
    Franklin D. Roosevelt
  • b)
    Theodore Roosevelt
  • c)
    Woodrow Wilson
  • d)
    Harry S. Truman
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Capstone Ias Learning answered
Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, played a significant role in formulating and advocating for the war aims of the Allies and the United States during World War I. His "Fourteen Points" and subsequent pronouncements outlined principles for a just and lasting peace and had a substantial impact on the post-war settlement.

What was the significance of the British use of convoys during World War I?
  • a)
    Convoys allowed for faster troop deployment
  • b)
    Convoys improved communication with allies
  • c)
    Convoys reduced the effectiveness of U-boats
  • d)
    Convoys facilitated diplomatic negotiations
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Goel UPSC Coaching Center answered
The significance of the British use of convoys during World War I was that "convoys reduced the effectiveness of U-boats." Convoys provided protection for merchant ships, making it more difficult for German U-boats to target and sink them. This development played a crucial role in countering the U-boat campaign.

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 was the main objective of Allenby's offensive in Palestine in autumn 1917?
  • a)
    To capture the city of Gaza
  • b)
    To achieve a breakthrough at Abu Hureira
  • c)
    To draw Turkish reserves to Beersheba
  • d)
    To advance inland on Jerusalem
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Valor Academy answered
The main objective of Allenby's offensive in Palestine in autumn 1917 was "to advance inland on Jerusalem." Allenby's successful campaign in Palestine included the capture of Beersheba, which was a prerequisite for advancing toward Jerusalem. After the capture of Beersheba, Allenby's forces wheeled their main force to the right and moved inland to occupy Jerusalem on December 9, 1917.

What tactical advantage did the British gain during the Battle of Messines Ridge in June 1917?
  • a)
    Surprise effect of 19 huge mines
  • b)
    Successful capture of German concrete pillboxes
  • c)
    Use of tanks in swampy terrain
  • d)
    Aerial reconnaissance
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Capstone Ias Learning answered
During the Battle of Messines Ridge in June 1917, the British gained a tactical advantage through the "surprise effect of 19 huge mines" that were simultaneously detonated beneath the German front lines. This element of surprise greatly contributed to the success of the operation.

What event in 1916 led to the United States declaring war on Germany?
  • a)
    The Russian Revolution
  • b)
    The sinking of the Lusitania
  • c)
    The publication of the Zimmermann Telegram
  • d)
    The Battle of Jutland
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Spectrum Coaching Institute answered
In 1916, the publication of the Zimmermann Telegram led to the United States declaring war on Germany. This intercepted telegram revealed Germany's proposal to Mexico to become its ally against the United States, which greatly strained U.S.-German relations. The United States officially entered World War I shortly after this revelation, on April 6, 1917. The Zimmermann Telegram played a crucial role in the U.S. decision to join the conflict.

What was the result of the 11th Battle of the Isonzo in 1917?
  • a)
    It led to the capture of Trieste by Italian forces
  • b)
    It strained Austrian resistance severely but did not result in significant territorial gains
  • c)
    It marked a major breakthrough for the Austrian forces
  • d)
    It resulted in the complete defeat of the Italian army
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Divey Sethi answered
The result of the 11th Battle of the Isonzo in 1917 was that it "strained Austrian resistance severely but did not result in significant territorial gains" for the Italian forces. While the battle put pressure on the Austrian defenders, it did not lead to any substantial breakthroughs or territorial changes.

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 were the main principles outlined in President Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points?
  • a)
    Principles for the colonization of foreign territories
  • b)
    Principles for military conquest and occupation
  • c)
    Principles for a just and lasting peace
  • d)
    Principles for economic dominance
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ias Masters answered
President Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points outlined "principles for a just and lasting peace." These points included principles related to open diplomacy, freedom of navigation, reduction of armaments, self-determination for nations, territorial adjustments, and the establishment of a general association of nations to maintain peace.

What was the outcome of the Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendaele) launched on July 31, 1917?
  • a)
    Complete success with all objectives achieved
  • b)
    Failure with no ground gained
  • c)
    Partial success with only the left wing's objectives achieved
  • d)
    Decisive victory with minimal losses
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Capstone Ias Learning answered
The outcome of the Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendaele), launched on July 31, 1917, was a "partial success with only the left wing's objectives achieved." The attack on the right wing was a failure, and while some ground was gained, the overall results were mixed. The battle did not achieve a decisive breakthrough, and the ground conditions became swampy, making further advances challenging.

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.

Chapter doubts & questions for The First World War & its aftermath - UPSC Mains: World History 2025 is part of UPSC CSE exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the UPSC CSE exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for UPSC CSE 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

Chapter doubts & questions of The First World War & its aftermath - UPSC Mains: World History in English & Hindi are available as part of UPSC CSE exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for UPSC CSE Exam by signing up for free.

UPSC Mains: World History

50 videos|69 docs|30 tests

Top Courses UPSC CSE

Related UPSC CSE Content

© EduRev
Education Revolution
Signup to see your scores go up within 7 days!
Access 1000+ FREE Docs, Videos and Tests
Takes less than 10 seconds to signup