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The summary begins by explaining the underlying causes of the war, including the complex political and economic rivalries among European nations. It then outlines the sequence of events that led to the outbreak of war, starting with the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary by a Serbian nationalist. The summary details the formation of two major alliances – the Allies (including France, Russia, and the United Kingdom) and the Central Powers (including Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire) – and highlights the initial military strategies employed by both sides. It also describes how new technologies and weapons, such as machine guns, trenches, and poison gas, transformed the nature of warfare and led to unprecedented levels of destruction and casualties. The page delves into the various theaters of the war, including the Western Front in Europe, the Eastern Front between Russia and Germany, and the naval battles in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It discusses key battles and offensives, such as the Battle of the Somme and the Gallipoli Campaign, as well as the involvement of colonial troops from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Furthermore, the summary examines the social and economic impacts of the war, such as the mobilization of entire societies, the role of women in wartime industries, and the devastating consequences on civilian populations. It also explores the political consequences of the conflict, including the collapse of several empires and the subsequent redrawing of national borders. Finally, the summary concludes by discussing the armistice and the negotiations that led to the Treaty of Versailles, which officially ended the war. It addresses the long-term consequences of the conflict, including the seeds of resentment and unresolved issues that would contribute to the outbreak of the Second World War just two decades later. Overall, the Wikipedia page on the First World War provides a comprehensive and detailed account of one of the most significant events in human history, covering its causes, major events, and far-reaching consequences.