Introduction

In 1914, Germany had only two allies (friends) – Austria-Hungary and weak, unreliable Italy.  These three countries had formed an alliance called the Triple Alliance.

Other countries, however, were hostile towards Germany.  France, Russia and Great Britain had joined themselves into the Triple Entente – an alliance against Germany. 

Serbia was Russia's ally; Japan had made an alliance with Great Britain – Germans felt that they were surrounded by enemies.  

After you have studied this webpage, answer the question sheet by clicking on the 'Time to Work' icon at the top of the page.

Links:

The following websites will help you research further:

1   German cartoon-map showing: 'Germany under threat from its enemies' (1914)

The map shows the countries' borders fairly accurately; it is possible to see how different they were from today's national boundaries – particularly,in central and eastern Europe.

The scale, which is shown in the shape of a rifle, translates as: 'Scale 2 to 8 or more (enemies).

Counties shown include: Osterreich Ungarn (Austria-Hungary); Serbien (Serbia); Deutschland (Germany); Russland (Russia); Frankreich (France); Griechenland (Greece) and Marokko (Morocco); along with the Mittellandisches Meer (Mediterranean Sea); Schwarzes Meer (Black Sea); Ostsee (Baltic Sea); and the Stiller Ocean (Pacific Ocean).

Interrogating the cartoon:

1.  Look at the faces of Austria-Hungary and Germany.  Were the Germans afraid of their enemies ranged against them?

2.  Look at the faces of Britain, France and Russia.  Which country was Germany most afraid of?  How can you tell?

3.  Interpret the meaning of:
•  The iron fist striking Britain from the sea;
•  Zeppelins over Britain and in the mouth of the Russian;
•  The bees coming from the German hive;
•  The Japanese navy tied to Britain;
•  The Irish trying to cut their tie to Britain;
•  The Austro-Hungarian soldier pointing his rifle at Russia;
•  Belgium is represented as a toad.

 Click here for the answers

4.  This is a German cartoon-map; looking at it as a whole, would you say it shows that Germany was 'on the 'defensive', or 'on the offensive', in 1914?