AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
WWI's Unexpected Length
- In August 1914, everyone believed World War I would be over by Christmas.
- This was based on the past century's wars being short, single-season affairs.
The Schlieffen Plan's Fatal Flaw
- Germany's Schlieffen Plan aimed to avoid a two-front war by quickly defeating France before Russia mobilized.
- This plan hinged on invading France through Belgium, which prompted Britain to join the war.
The Shocking Reality of Modern Warfare
- World War I's early battles revealed shocking casualty rates due to 20th-century tech meeting 19th-century tactics.
- This led to trench warfare and a war of attrition, catching Russia, ill-equipped for long conflicts, off guard.