The Schlieffen Plan: The Chaos Heightens

The Domino Effect1. July 28th, 1914: Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia. Russia mobilizes troops to join the

fight on the side of Serbia.

2. August 1st, 1914: Germany declares war on Russia.

a. At first, Italy stays out of the fighting but fights with the Triple Alliance

3. August 3rd, 1914: Germany declares war on France, and Belgium

4. August 4th, 1914: The British Empire declares war on Germany

5. August 6th, 1914: Austria-Hungary declares war on Russia.

6. August 11th, 1914: France declares war on Austria-Hungary.

7. August 12th, 1914: British Empire declares war on Austria-Hungary.

8. August 22nd, 1914: Austria-Hungary declares war on Belgium.

What was the plan?

What were some considerations?

Was it a success?

Map Black line is Original Schlieffen Plan

Red lines is the actual movements

Blue lines is allied counteroffensive

Green dotted line is furthest point of penetration

AftermathThe failed Schlieffen Plan led to a “race to the English Channel” (September - October 1914) and ended in stalemate and trench warfare that would last the entire war.