World War I

📖Story Brief #465

World War I, also known as the Great War, lasted from 1914 to 1918 and involved many of the world's great powers.

🎯 Your mission

Find what matters in the words.

⚡ The twist

Slow down. The first answer that pops up isn't always the right one.

Read this passage

Normal

World War I, also known as the Great War, lasted from 1914 to 1918 and involved many of the world's great powers. The war began after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary, which triggered a series of alliances and conflicts. The main fighting was between two groups: the Allies, including France, Britain, and Russia, and the Central Powers, primarily Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire. Soldiers fought in trenches, facing harsh conditions, and the war saw the introduction of new technologies like tanks and airplanes. A significant event was the Battle of the Somme, where over one million soldiers were killed or wounded. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, which imposed heavy penalties on Germany and reshaped national borders. The impact of World War I was profound, leading to major changes in politics and society around the world.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 2

What event triggered the beginning of World War I?

How sure are you going to be?😐 maybe

🏆

Stretch Challenge

Try this in real life this week.

Read for 10 minutes today — anything you want.

👨‍👩‍👧

For the dinner table

“What's one thing you read today that surprised you?”

🎯

Next Smart Lesson

We'll pick a lesson that matches exactly how well you're reading right now.

📄Share card

Share this lesson

Send it to a parent or fellow reader. 5 minutes is all it takes.

🖨️

Checkout complete lesson on Extra Passages for 8th Grade

Get the full Extra Passages track as a printable PDF — all lessons, worksheets, and answer keys.

View in Shop

Done with reading? Try something else

📖Flashcards ✏️Writing 🎮Play a Game 🖨️Print Worksheet 🎨Color Book 🛍️Shop 🎲I'm Bored