The First World War began in the year 1914. It was a complex conflict involving many of the world's major powers, which were divided into two opposing alliances: the Allies and the Central Powers. The war was triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary on June 28, 1914, and it quickly escalated due to a web of political alliances and military mobilizations. The war lasted until 1918, resulting in significant geopolitical changes, widespread destruction, and profound loss of life, shaping the course of history in the 20th century.