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

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 was the primary consequence of the First Battle of the Marne during World War I?
  • a)
    The capture of Paris by the German forces.
  • b)
    The establishment of a stable front line along the Marne River.
  • c)
    The withdrawal of the French and British forces from Europe.
  • d)
    The successful execution of the Schlieffen Plan.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Poulomi Kumar answered
Primary consequence of the First Battle of the Marne during World War I:

The primary consequence of the First Battle of the Marne during World War I was the establishment of a stable front line along the Marne River.

Background:

The First Battle of the Marne took place from September 6 to September 12, 1914. It was a crucial battle fought between the German and Allied forces on the Western Front during World War I. The German army had launched an offensive in an attempt to quickly defeat France and capture Paris, following the implementation of their Schlieffen Plan.

Key Points:

- German Advance: At the beginning of the battle, the German forces made significant progress and managed to advance rapidly towards Paris. However, due to logistical challenges and the extended supply lines, the German army became stretched and vulnerable.

- French and British Counterattack: Recognizing the opportunity, the French and British forces launched a counterattack against the stretched German lines. They conducted a series of coordinated assaults, using a combination of infantry, artillery, and cavalry units.

- Stable Front Line: The counterattack proved successful, and the German advance was halted. As the battle progressed, both sides suffered heavy casualties, but neither could gain a decisive advantage. Eventually, the battle ended with a stalemate, resulting in the establishment of a stable front line along the Marne River.

- Trench Warfare: The establishment of the stable front line along the Marne River marked the beginning of trench warfare on the Western Front. Both sides dug trenches and fortified their positions, leading to a prolonged and bloody stalemate that lasted for years.

- Impact: The First Battle of the Marne was a turning point in World War I. It prevented the German army from achieving a quick victory and capturing Paris. The stability of the front line along the Marne River meant that neither side could make significant territorial gains, leading to a protracted and devastating war of attrition.

In conclusion, the primary consequence of the First Battle of the Marne was the establishment of a stable front line along the Marne River, which marked the beginning of trench warfare on the Western Front and prevented the German advance towards Paris.

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?

Anirban Datta answered
General L.G. Kornilov's Role in the Eastern Front during World War I:
General L.G. Kornilov played a significant role in the Eastern Front during World War I. He was known for launching an unsuccessful offensive against the Austrians in eastern Galicia.
- Commander of Russian Forces: General L.G. Kornilov was a prominent military leader in the Russian army, known for his strategic acumen and leadership skills.
- Offensive against Austrians: Kornilov led a major offensive against the Austrians in eastern Galicia during World War I. However, this offensive was ultimately unsuccessful, leading to setbacks for the Russian forces.
- Impact on Eastern Front: The failure of Kornilov's offensive had significant implications for the Eastern Front, as it weakened the Russian position against the Central Powers and contributed to the overall challenges faced by the Russian military during the war.
Overall, General L.G. Kornilov's role in the Eastern Front during World War I was marked by his leadership in launching offensives against the Austrians, albeit with mixed results in terms of success.

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?

Anirban Datta answered
German Offensive Strategy on the Western Front:

Bypass Machine-Gun Nests and Points of Strong Resistance:
The German offensive strategy during the offensives on the Western Front was to bypass machine-gun nests and points of strong resistance. This tactic was aimed at avoiding direct confrontations with heavily fortified enemy positions, which could result in heavy casualties. By bypassing these obstacles, the German forces could advance more rapidly and maintain momentum during their offensives.

Wait for Reinforcements Before Continuing the Advance:
Another key aspect of the German offensive strategy was to wait for reinforcements before continuing the advance. This allowed the German forces to consolidate their gains and strengthen their positions before pushing further into enemy territory. By waiting for reinforcements, the Germans could ensure that they had the necessary manpower and resources to sustain their offensive operations.

Focus on Capturing Observation Posts:
The Germans also prioritized capturing observation posts during their offensives on the Western Front. By gaining control of these key positions, the Germans could gather valuable intelligence on enemy movements and positions, which would allow them to plan their attacks more effectively. Capturing observation posts also disrupted enemy communications and coordination, further weakening their defenses.

Use Poison Gas and Smoke Shells in the Initial Artillery Bombardments:
In addition, the Germans utilized poison gas and smoke shells in the initial artillery bombardments to disorient and incapacitate enemy forces. Poison gas was a particularly devastating weapon that caused widespread panic and casualties among enemy troops. By incorporating these chemical weapons into their offensives, the Germans sought to create chaos and confusion on the battlefield, making it easier for their forces to advance and achieve their objectives.

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 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?

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 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.

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.

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 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 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?

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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 key objective of the British military operations in Mesopotamia in 1917?
  • a)
    To capture Baghdad
  • b)
    To secure the Suez Canal
  • c)
    To gain control of the Tigris River
  • d)
    To negotiate a peace treaty with the Ottoman Empire
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Valor Academy answered
The key objective of the British military operations in Mesopotamia in 1917 was "to capture Baghdad." Under the command of Sir Frederick Stanley Maude, British forces successfully captured Baghdad on March 11, 1917, marking a significant achievement in the campaign in Mesopotamia during World War I.

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 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.

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 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.

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 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?

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.

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?

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.

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?

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 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?

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.

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?

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 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 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 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.

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