The Great War, commonly known as World War I, began in 1914, specifically triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria on June 28. The war lasted until 1918 and involved many nations across the globe, resulting in significant geopolitical changes. The aftermath of the war saw the collapse of empires, redrawing of borders, and set the stage for future conflicts, including World War II. This period reshaped political alliances and introduced modern warfare tactics, marking a pivotal moment in the 20th century.