Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
I don't think I have that many, but sending some to Gallipoli might help weaken the units in Constantinople. It's been under heavy ship bombardment recently.
Inevitable Conflict? A First World War AAR
- Thread starter Kan' Sharuminar
- Start date
Mowque
Hypermodernist
no helping! i want a 'natrual' game
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
Mowque: It pretty much is (I'm usually about half a year ahead of when the update is done) but I don't mind suggestions 
AlCosta: Thanks!
Inevitable Conflict? The British Fight the Great War
August 1919 - January 1920
The fall of Gallipoli had taken far fewer losses than anticipated, and the Admiralty was rightly praised for such an effective landings. This was backed up when, a mere two weeks after the landings, the British fleet in the region moved within in range of Constantinople and destroyed its oil production facilities before beginning general bombardment operations. With full recon on the city, it was decided that an operation to take the city could be authorised.
In Germany, the situation was not so good. With the destruction of almost all the American offensive armies, Britain and France were left the sole defenders of the gains of the past few years. Germany had seized the moment, launching offensives at Berlin and Reims, presumably hoping a double victory would not only threaten the entire Allied advance, but boost morale to early-war levels. Likewise, such a defeat for Britain could potentially cause revolutionary activities on the home islands to boil over, putting them in a crisis being seen in Russia, France and Turkey with their uprisings.
Turkish guerrilla forces
In the latter countrys case, the Turkish independence movement came to a head when rebels took control of the city of Adana. Formally under British control, High Command ordered its troops evacuated to take part in the upcoming campaign in Constantinople. The rebels had seized the opportunity, and captured it early in 1920, given the movement an actual base of power to strike with. The attack caught High Command by surprise, but they quickly capitalised on it, claiming that it had been a tactical decision to allow the rebels to move in, as they could achieve far more damage to the Ottomans with the city, than without. Britain would not send a counter-attack.
Not that they could, given the extremely thinly stretched front. Troops had been called from Gibraltar and Egypt to boost the strength in more important regions, but that left these areas at risk from rebel attack. Good news came when the Americans announced they would send dozens of their own troops into the Balkans and Turkey, to begin operations in the theatre. While it may be assumed they were still reeling from the blow in Western Europe and wished to take on weaker enemies in 1920, Britain and the countries in the region were glad of the help.
For the past year, Serbia, Greece and Romania had been fighting almost single-handedly against the Austrians, Ottomans and Bulgarians. Remarkably, they had succeeded in repelling nearly every offensive thrown at them, and at times even managed attacks of their own. Serbie achieved a monumental victory in December when they took control of the Austrian city of Temesvar. They were forced to evacuate shortly afterwards when the enemy retaliated, but it had been a terrific boost to a people who had been on the defensive since the start of the war. Romania and Greece, meanwhile, had continue to peck at Bulgaria and Turkish forces, though it was only with the British landings at Gallipoli that they were suddenly given more freedom to launch more attacks as they saw fit. With the Turkish capital under threat, they decided to put their trust into Britain, and launched an all-out offensive into Bulgaria.
The British operation to take Constantinople began in October, when British forces moved out from Gallipoli. Progress was slow, owing to the weather, terrain, and continued resistance of the Turks in the region. They were aided by the noise of the RAF planes as they moved to strike at defensive targets in the city. Further away, the guns of the Royal Navy blasted apart whatever barriers and city defences had been protecting the city.
The Battle of Constantinople
Battle truly began in December, as the tanks - always a bane to the Ottomans - pushed into the city and made heavy headway. The bulk of the battle was done with the cavalry and infantry units of the British Army, a move that harkened back to the early days of the war, particularly as once again, the weaker Turkish forces were powerless to resist. The great capital of the Ottoman Empire fell in January 1920. It was the shining victory if the entire British campaign, and it was the final death knell of the sick man in Europe. By the time American forces landed in Turkey the following month. Though they would continue to resist until the end of the war, the Ottomans had been defeated
AlCosta: Thanks!
Inevitable Conflict? The British Fight the Great War
August 1919 - January 1920
The fall of Gallipoli had taken far fewer losses than anticipated, and the Admiralty was rightly praised for such an effective landings. This was backed up when, a mere two weeks after the landings, the British fleet in the region moved within in range of Constantinople and destroyed its oil production facilities before beginning general bombardment operations. With full recon on the city, it was decided that an operation to take the city could be authorised.
In Germany, the situation was not so good. With the destruction of almost all the American offensive armies, Britain and France were left the sole defenders of the gains of the past few years. Germany had seized the moment, launching offensives at Berlin and Reims, presumably hoping a double victory would not only threaten the entire Allied advance, but boost morale to early-war levels. Likewise, such a defeat for Britain could potentially cause revolutionary activities on the home islands to boil over, putting them in a crisis being seen in Russia, France and Turkey with their uprisings.
Turkish guerrilla forces
In the latter countrys case, the Turkish independence movement came to a head when rebels took control of the city of Adana. Formally under British control, High Command ordered its troops evacuated to take part in the upcoming campaign in Constantinople. The rebels had seized the opportunity, and captured it early in 1920, given the movement an actual base of power to strike with. The attack caught High Command by surprise, but they quickly capitalised on it, claiming that it had been a tactical decision to allow the rebels to move in, as they could achieve far more damage to the Ottomans with the city, than without. Britain would not send a counter-attack.
Not that they could, given the extremely thinly stretched front. Troops had been called from Gibraltar and Egypt to boost the strength in more important regions, but that left these areas at risk from rebel attack. Good news came when the Americans announced they would send dozens of their own troops into the Balkans and Turkey, to begin operations in the theatre. While it may be assumed they were still reeling from the blow in Western Europe and wished to take on weaker enemies in 1920, Britain and the countries in the region were glad of the help.
For the past year, Serbia, Greece and Romania had been fighting almost single-handedly against the Austrians, Ottomans and Bulgarians. Remarkably, they had succeeded in repelling nearly every offensive thrown at them, and at times even managed attacks of their own. Serbie achieved a monumental victory in December when they took control of the Austrian city of Temesvar. They were forced to evacuate shortly afterwards when the enemy retaliated, but it had been a terrific boost to a people who had been on the defensive since the start of the war. Romania and Greece, meanwhile, had continue to peck at Bulgaria and Turkish forces, though it was only with the British landings at Gallipoli that they were suddenly given more freedom to launch more attacks as they saw fit. With the Turkish capital under threat, they decided to put their trust into Britain, and launched an all-out offensive into Bulgaria.
The British operation to take Constantinople began in October, when British forces moved out from Gallipoli. Progress was slow, owing to the weather, terrain, and continued resistance of the Turks in the region. They were aided by the noise of the RAF planes as they moved to strike at defensive targets in the city. Further away, the guns of the Royal Navy blasted apart whatever barriers and city defences had been protecting the city.
The Battle of Constantinople
Battle truly began in December, as the tanks - always a bane to the Ottomans - pushed into the city and made heavy headway. The bulk of the battle was done with the cavalry and infantry units of the British Army, a move that harkened back to the early days of the war, particularly as once again, the weaker Turkish forces were powerless to resist. The great capital of the Ottoman Empire fell in January 1920. It was the shining victory if the entire British campaign, and it was the final death knell of the sick man in Europe. By the time American forces landed in Turkey the following month. Though they would continue to resist until the end of the war, the Ottomans had been defeated
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
The thought never occurred to me - I needed to rest my forces and wait for two tank divisions to make their way over, and I held back from attacking (losing Gallipoli and Constantinople would have been pretty demoralising) and watched the Americans attack in the south. By the time I could do something, there was very little time left in the game, so I saw no point
Besides, Greece and Romania are having the time of their lives in Bulgaria.
Besides, Greece and Romania are having the time of their lives in Bulgaria.
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
Inevitable Conflict? The British Fight the Great War
August 1919 - January 1920
The victories in the Middle East and Eastern Europe were highly contrasted to the events occurring in Western Europe at the same time. Her capital was taken, most of her western territories were under occupation, but Germany still had one last card up her sleeve. One final offensive that was designed to force the Allied Powers out of her territories, or at worst, give some sort of leverage when peace talks would inevitably come round.
The main aim was the recapture of Berlin. The Kaiser, along with most of the German government, had relocated to East Prussia before the capital had fallen, though they had vowed to return. With the Allied Powers still weak after the American defeats, and oil sources being destroyed by RAF bombing, this was their last chance to fend off total defeat.
British air bombardment at Leipzig continues
Most of the British Army at this point was attacking Leipzig, hoping to cut off south-west Germany, or being forced to hold back near Reims, falling for the Germen feint designed to weaken the defences of Berlin. Though British and French tanks were able to conduct several raids on the advancing German troops, British High Command believed it was just a small probing force, designed to clear the way for a larger attack. In a way, they were right - the attack fell in August, but at Berlin.
The armoured garrison in the city managed to hold off the initial advance, before being destroyed in a massive tank battle in the eastern suburbs. From here, the infantry were easily pushed back and thrown out of the city. The German plan had gone perfectly, Berlin was back in their hands.
At first, British High Command were determined to retake the city, even considering breaking off the attack at Leipzig. In the end, such an attack was called off - Berlin had been taken purely in an attempt to end the war, and break supply lines with the city of Luebeck, that America had been trying to take. Both had failed, and it would be foolhardy to halt the Leipzig attack as it was underway. Berlin was no longer an Allied objective, and Leipzig fell in September. What to do afterwards however - to retake Berlin, push for Strassburg or Luebeck - plagued High Command, and as a result many units were attacked and destroyed as they were redeployed.
The Germans took advantage of this. They had originally hoped to take Reims, hoping from there to push north to take Brussels. This would cut off all of the major continental supply lines between France and occupied Germany, potentially allowing a major German offensive to retake lost territories and wiping out the Allied invasion force. It was not to be, and instead it was decided that Leipzig would be retaken instead, forcing Britain into an embarrassing return to the frontlines of 1918.
German forces marching for Leipzig
The Second Battle of Leipzig was to become the final German offensive of the war, though the British didnt let them achieve victory easily. From October to the end of the year, German forces were repelled at the edge of the city, the British infantry refusing to surrender any land. The situation was hopelessly lost, and continued German attacks made it clear they were willing to sacrifice many more troops to retake the city and secure the region near Berlin. As such, High Command gave the authorisation for remaining British forces to pull out Leipzig, and return to defend remaining British territory.
For Germany, the offensive had been of great success, though not the salvation of the country that had been desired. Their industries were now crippled due to the lack of oil, and the bulk of their offensive units had been destroyed. Unable to continue any attacks, they remained on the defensive for the remainder of the war, desperately hoping that the British forces remaining in Europe was not enough to launch a final major offensive over the remainder of 1920. Their belief was well placed, at this point Britain was currently operating in the Middle East, and was in no position to launch a front-wide attack.
For Britain, the defeats were not as bad as it initially seemed. Though the sudden losses were initially demoralising, by saving the remaining troops at Leipzig, as well as withdrawing the forces being prepared for a counterattack, the threat of an overstretched defensive front was suddenly diminished. North-west Germany, still under occupation, could now be adequately protected from potentially attacks. In fact, the freed up armoured divisions allowed for the possible assault into the Strassburg, a region that France was desperate to recover (it had been lost in the Franco-Prussian War). Though loathe to offer assistance to the French, High Command had to admit the region was weakly defended, and taking the city would be of major importance in freeing up troops remaining in France for a major attack
August 1919 - January 1920
The victories in the Middle East and Eastern Europe were highly contrasted to the events occurring in Western Europe at the same time. Her capital was taken, most of her western territories were under occupation, but Germany still had one last card up her sleeve. One final offensive that was designed to force the Allied Powers out of her territories, or at worst, give some sort of leverage when peace talks would inevitably come round.
The main aim was the recapture of Berlin. The Kaiser, along with most of the German government, had relocated to East Prussia before the capital had fallen, though they had vowed to return. With the Allied Powers still weak after the American defeats, and oil sources being destroyed by RAF bombing, this was their last chance to fend off total defeat.
British air bombardment at Leipzig continues
Most of the British Army at this point was attacking Leipzig, hoping to cut off south-west Germany, or being forced to hold back near Reims, falling for the Germen feint designed to weaken the defences of Berlin. Though British and French tanks were able to conduct several raids on the advancing German troops, British High Command believed it was just a small probing force, designed to clear the way for a larger attack. In a way, they were right - the attack fell in August, but at Berlin.
The armoured garrison in the city managed to hold off the initial advance, before being destroyed in a massive tank battle in the eastern suburbs. From here, the infantry were easily pushed back and thrown out of the city. The German plan had gone perfectly, Berlin was back in their hands.
At first, British High Command were determined to retake the city, even considering breaking off the attack at Leipzig. In the end, such an attack was called off - Berlin had been taken purely in an attempt to end the war, and break supply lines with the city of Luebeck, that America had been trying to take. Both had failed, and it would be foolhardy to halt the Leipzig attack as it was underway. Berlin was no longer an Allied objective, and Leipzig fell in September. What to do afterwards however - to retake Berlin, push for Strassburg or Luebeck - plagued High Command, and as a result many units were attacked and destroyed as they were redeployed.
The Germans took advantage of this. They had originally hoped to take Reims, hoping from there to push north to take Brussels. This would cut off all of the major continental supply lines between France and occupied Germany, potentially allowing a major German offensive to retake lost territories and wiping out the Allied invasion force. It was not to be, and instead it was decided that Leipzig would be retaken instead, forcing Britain into an embarrassing return to the frontlines of 1918.
German forces marching for Leipzig
The Second Battle of Leipzig was to become the final German offensive of the war, though the British didnt let them achieve victory easily. From October to the end of the year, German forces were repelled at the edge of the city, the British infantry refusing to surrender any land. The situation was hopelessly lost, and continued German attacks made it clear they were willing to sacrifice many more troops to retake the city and secure the region near Berlin. As such, High Command gave the authorisation for remaining British forces to pull out Leipzig, and return to defend remaining British territory.
For Germany, the offensive had been of great success, though not the salvation of the country that had been desired. Their industries were now crippled due to the lack of oil, and the bulk of their offensive units had been destroyed. Unable to continue any attacks, they remained on the defensive for the remainder of the war, desperately hoping that the British forces remaining in Europe was not enough to launch a final major offensive over the remainder of 1920. Their belief was well placed, at this point Britain was currently operating in the Middle East, and was in no position to launch a front-wide attack.
For Britain, the defeats were not as bad as it initially seemed. Though the sudden losses were initially demoralising, by saving the remaining troops at Leipzig, as well as withdrawing the forces being prepared for a counterattack, the threat of an overstretched defensive front was suddenly diminished. North-west Germany, still under occupation, could now be adequately protected from potentially attacks. In fact, the freed up armoured divisions allowed for the possible assault into the Strassburg, a region that France was desperate to recover (it had been lost in the Franco-Prussian War). Though loathe to offer assistance to the French, High Command had to admit the region was weakly defended, and taking the city would be of major importance in freeing up troops remaining in France for a major attack
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
Inevitable Conflict? The British Fight the Great War
January - July 1920
The last six months of the war were to be a source of much contention for future historians. While the governments of the warring powers would contend it was their final offensives that sparked the road for peace, a more realistic - though unpopular - theory was that it was in fact the massive levels of dissent, in turn sparking independence movements or an end to the war that forced the leaders to go to the bargaining tables.
With the exception of America, all the major powers involved were suffering high levels of rebel activity. In Britain, Italy and Germany, it was rioting anti-war groups that was forcing divisions away from the front. In Austria and Turkey, various independence movements were crippling their own plans, and in the latter case it had proved fatal. Russia and France had suffered political movements, and Russia had also lost Finland to an uprising there. It would never regain it.
The truth was, the last six months was more a war of attrition, but against internal collapse rather than frontline losses. Except America, no power had the potential to launch a major offensive, and were waiting for the first signs of a peace feelers. British High Command however, were hoping to provide one final incentive - as well as another bargaining advantage - before any sort of cease-fire option was available. They eyed Strasbourg.
The city had been coveted since the beginning of the war, but no assault had been attempted by either Britain or France. America had made a push for it in early 1919, but had been wiped out by superior German forces. Now those forces were weakened by the recapture of Berlin and Leipzig, and Britain had several armoured divisions - and an all-powerful RAF - available from the failed defence of central Germany. They were to take part in one last charge.
British infantry and armour prepare for the last charge
While this was happening, America continued to remain a powerful threat to the Central Powers. They had already taken western Turkey in order to provide some leverage in the upcoming talks to discuss the Ottoman Empires future, now they had set their sights on the Balkans. The Austria-Hungarian Empire was made up of several national groups, and with the war still in the Allies favour, not to mention the great successes of Serbia, they began greater calls for full independence. America was determined to see that happen, and in May began landings off the Adriatic coast. Within two months they had secured the region, sent troops to assist Serbia, and were beginning a massive offensive north, threatening the heart of the empire.
In addition, America had also begun fresh landings to reinforce northern Germany as well as France, and had openly announced dozens more units were on their way. It was a move timed with the launch of the British offensive in order to scare Germany into surrendering. They did not, meaning that Strasbourg would have to be taken in order to prove the threat was real.
The Battle of Strasbourg took place in July, and was a display of everything that Britain had learned during the war years. The artillery units of the army bombarded the static defences of the city, while the RAF launched strikes at the garrison forces, weakening their resolve and organisation. This was followed by the main attack itself - no longer lead by the brave infantry units, but the armoured tanks that had come about halfway through the war. As they swept clear the enemy, then the infantrymen moved in to secure the city, before machine-gunner brigades set up camp and awaited the enemy counter-attack, should it occur. It was formulaic by now, and did not betray the fact that these doctrines at the end of the war had been developed through some very experimental, sometimes shambolic, manoeuvres during the war itself. The battle was over within a month - total victory.
The Western Front after the fall of Strasbourg
It had done the trick. With the belief that Britain retained the ability to launch large attacks, and in the knowledge that massive American reinforcements were on their way, the German government could do nothing but accept the inevitable, and attempt to end the conflict. They could do nothing but approach the Allies with an offer of cease-fire, and an agreement to an armistice. The Great War was over
January - July 1920
The last six months of the war were to be a source of much contention for future historians. While the governments of the warring powers would contend it was their final offensives that sparked the road for peace, a more realistic - though unpopular - theory was that it was in fact the massive levels of dissent, in turn sparking independence movements or an end to the war that forced the leaders to go to the bargaining tables.
With the exception of America, all the major powers involved were suffering high levels of rebel activity. In Britain, Italy and Germany, it was rioting anti-war groups that was forcing divisions away from the front. In Austria and Turkey, various independence movements were crippling their own plans, and in the latter case it had proved fatal. Russia and France had suffered political movements, and Russia had also lost Finland to an uprising there. It would never regain it.
The truth was, the last six months was more a war of attrition, but against internal collapse rather than frontline losses. Except America, no power had the potential to launch a major offensive, and were waiting for the first signs of a peace feelers. British High Command however, were hoping to provide one final incentive - as well as another bargaining advantage - before any sort of cease-fire option was available. They eyed Strasbourg.
The city had been coveted since the beginning of the war, but no assault had been attempted by either Britain or France. America had made a push for it in early 1919, but had been wiped out by superior German forces. Now those forces were weakened by the recapture of Berlin and Leipzig, and Britain had several armoured divisions - and an all-powerful RAF - available from the failed defence of central Germany. They were to take part in one last charge.
British infantry and armour prepare for the last charge
While this was happening, America continued to remain a powerful threat to the Central Powers. They had already taken western Turkey in order to provide some leverage in the upcoming talks to discuss the Ottoman Empires future, now they had set their sights on the Balkans. The Austria-Hungarian Empire was made up of several national groups, and with the war still in the Allies favour, not to mention the great successes of Serbia, they began greater calls for full independence. America was determined to see that happen, and in May began landings off the Adriatic coast. Within two months they had secured the region, sent troops to assist Serbia, and were beginning a massive offensive north, threatening the heart of the empire.
In addition, America had also begun fresh landings to reinforce northern Germany as well as France, and had openly announced dozens more units were on their way. It was a move timed with the launch of the British offensive in order to scare Germany into surrendering. They did not, meaning that Strasbourg would have to be taken in order to prove the threat was real.
The Battle of Strasbourg took place in July, and was a display of everything that Britain had learned during the war years. The artillery units of the army bombarded the static defences of the city, while the RAF launched strikes at the garrison forces, weakening their resolve and organisation. This was followed by the main attack itself - no longer lead by the brave infantry units, but the armoured tanks that had come about halfway through the war. As they swept clear the enemy, then the infantrymen moved in to secure the city, before machine-gunner brigades set up camp and awaited the enemy counter-attack, should it occur. It was formulaic by now, and did not betray the fact that these doctrines at the end of the war had been developed through some very experimental, sometimes shambolic, manoeuvres during the war itself. The battle was over within a month - total victory.
The Western Front after the fall of Strasbourg
It had done the trick. With the belief that Britain retained the ability to launch large attacks, and in the knowledge that massive American reinforcements were on their way, the German government could do nothing but accept the inevitable, and attempt to end the conflict. They could do nothing but approach the Allies with an offer of cease-fire, and an agreement to an armistice. The Great War was over
sirtommygunn
Emperor
very good very good ending and hey its an AAR that was finished great job! 
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
It's not quite finished - still needs an epilogue on what happened next
Given the many pages of alternate history theories, I can't not make up one of my own based on this
Given the many pages of alternate history theories, I can't not make up one of my own based on this
Emp. Killyouall
EVIL Emperor
I assume you won- Good job. I am still disappointed you didn't eliminate Germany... once you do that, its a race against time with cavs...
nodikus
It's Elementary...
Good work, You did a lot better than I did when I tried this. I barely held onto Paris.
sirtommygunn
Emperor
>:l you guys are making me wish that this mod worked on my game 
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
Inevitable Conflict? The British Fight the Great War
Epilogue, Part One
The terms of the final peace treaty were decided and ratified in 1921, a full year after the end of the war. It showed a complete redrawing of the borders in Eastern Europe, but for Britain, France and Germany, very little was to change.
Germanys last offensive at the end of 1919 had given her the leverage to make some form of demands about its future survival. It still had an army and an air force, and was quite willing to use them to defend the last bit of land, regardless of the strength of the American forces that had landed in occupied Germany. Such a threat was daunting enough that both Britain and America were willing to create a negotiated peace. France had protested immensely, but the vast rift created between her and her allies essentially locked them out of the negotiating tables. However, the bulk of the German colonies were granted to France, forcing German power to remain in Europe.
As such, it was agreed that Germany was to be allowed to retain her empire, and her Kaisers government, though Alsace-Lorraine was to be returned to France, and her western border was to be permanently demilitarised. It was agreed that her navy and tank numbers were to be restricted, and all information on armoured and plane technology handed over to the Allies for study. Reparations were also demanded to pay for the cost of reconstruction of Western Europe, though not at a crippling rate for Germany, as she agreed to accept blame for the outbreak of the war. It was rumoured that this final compromise was made less out of compassion for Germany, but as a slight backhand at France. Britain and America dominated the negotiation tables, and they were not happy with the country their own forces had fought and died for. This was the Treaty of Versailles, finally signed on the 11th November, 1921.
The Treaty was finally signed in the Palace of Versailles
Eastern Europe meanwhile, was in turmoil. With the war over, Russia could turn its attention fully on the Bolshevik uprising. However, the brutal measures and military actions against perceived threats - rebel or not - only infused the revolutionaries further. Even by the time the Versailles Treaty was signed, many separate factions were vying for independence, or simply joining the Soviet uprising as way of opposing the Czar. It was becoming a full civil war.
The Allied powers, exhausted from the years of warfare, simply couldnt hope to send forces to Russia in order to aide them. Indeed, almost as soon as the Treaty of Versailles was signed, American forces were withdrawing back to the United States. Britain, at the suggestion of Germany, offered the idea that Finnish and Polish independence be recognised (the latter was more for the creation of a buffer state between Germany and Russia). Initially, the Czar rejected such radical proposals, but was persuaded by the offer of supplies and equipment not needed by her allies. As it turned out, such supplies were nowhere near the amount required by the massive Russian armies, and the Czars hold on his Empire weakened.
A new Poland, though wary of her two powerful neighbours
The Ottoman and Austrian Empires had no such choice to hold onto their territories. It had been a disgruntled nationalist that had fired the shot that killed the Austrian heir, and it had been Austrias desire to bring another power under her control. It had to be dismembered, and with the timely American operation into the Balkans in 1919, the Allies could easily get their demands met. The future nations of Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, and the independent Austria and Hungary took shape. Italy and Romania also received territorys at the expense of the former Empire.
The Ottoman Empire suffered most of all, and completely ceased to be following the ened of the war. An independent Turkey was formed - at the insistence of the United States - that controlled the bulk of Asia Minor, though there was to be much in-fighting for total control over the rest of the decade. Greece took control of Ottoman Territory in Europe - not including Constantinople - while Britain and Italy (who had participated in several operations in the Middle East) - took territory of their own. Iraq and the Palestinian region became British Mandates, while Italy was granted control of Greater Lebanon. Russia and France received nothing.
In the end, the Central Powers had been completely dismembered, with only Germany retaining the bulk of her power. The rest were now smaller nation states, with very little influence over world affairs. The Allies gained the most, though this was debatable in Russias case, while Britain and France were looking at their gain from destroyed nations. Though the massive losses sustained would be replaced by a post-war boom, the actual physical - and psychological - damages done to each nation would take far longer to heal
Epilogue, Part One
The terms of the final peace treaty were decided and ratified in 1921, a full year after the end of the war. It showed a complete redrawing of the borders in Eastern Europe, but for Britain, France and Germany, very little was to change.
Germanys last offensive at the end of 1919 had given her the leverage to make some form of demands about its future survival. It still had an army and an air force, and was quite willing to use them to defend the last bit of land, regardless of the strength of the American forces that had landed in occupied Germany. Such a threat was daunting enough that both Britain and America were willing to create a negotiated peace. France had protested immensely, but the vast rift created between her and her allies essentially locked them out of the negotiating tables. However, the bulk of the German colonies were granted to France, forcing German power to remain in Europe.
As such, it was agreed that Germany was to be allowed to retain her empire, and her Kaisers government, though Alsace-Lorraine was to be returned to France, and her western border was to be permanently demilitarised. It was agreed that her navy and tank numbers were to be restricted, and all information on armoured and plane technology handed over to the Allies for study. Reparations were also demanded to pay for the cost of reconstruction of Western Europe, though not at a crippling rate for Germany, as she agreed to accept blame for the outbreak of the war. It was rumoured that this final compromise was made less out of compassion for Germany, but as a slight backhand at France. Britain and America dominated the negotiation tables, and they were not happy with the country their own forces had fought and died for. This was the Treaty of Versailles, finally signed on the 11th November, 1921.
The Treaty was finally signed in the Palace of Versailles
Eastern Europe meanwhile, was in turmoil. With the war over, Russia could turn its attention fully on the Bolshevik uprising. However, the brutal measures and military actions against perceived threats - rebel or not - only infused the revolutionaries further. Even by the time the Versailles Treaty was signed, many separate factions were vying for independence, or simply joining the Soviet uprising as way of opposing the Czar. It was becoming a full civil war.
The Allied powers, exhausted from the years of warfare, simply couldnt hope to send forces to Russia in order to aide them. Indeed, almost as soon as the Treaty of Versailles was signed, American forces were withdrawing back to the United States. Britain, at the suggestion of Germany, offered the idea that Finnish and Polish independence be recognised (the latter was more for the creation of a buffer state between Germany and Russia). Initially, the Czar rejected such radical proposals, but was persuaded by the offer of supplies and equipment not needed by her allies. As it turned out, such supplies were nowhere near the amount required by the massive Russian armies, and the Czars hold on his Empire weakened.
A new Poland, though wary of her two powerful neighbours
The Ottoman and Austrian Empires had no such choice to hold onto their territories. It had been a disgruntled nationalist that had fired the shot that killed the Austrian heir, and it had been Austrias desire to bring another power under her control. It had to be dismembered, and with the timely American operation into the Balkans in 1919, the Allies could easily get their demands met. The future nations of Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, and the independent Austria and Hungary took shape. Italy and Romania also received territorys at the expense of the former Empire.
The Ottoman Empire suffered most of all, and completely ceased to be following the ened of the war. An independent Turkey was formed - at the insistence of the United States - that controlled the bulk of Asia Minor, though there was to be much in-fighting for total control over the rest of the decade. Greece took control of Ottoman Territory in Europe - not including Constantinople - while Britain and Italy (who had participated in several operations in the Middle East) - took territory of their own. Iraq and the Palestinian region became British Mandates, while Italy was granted control of Greater Lebanon. Russia and France received nothing.
In the end, the Central Powers had been completely dismembered, with only Germany retaining the bulk of her power. The rest were now smaller nation states, with very little influence over world affairs. The Allies gained the most, though this was debatable in Russias case, while Britain and France were looking at their gain from destroyed nations. Though the massive losses sustained would be replaced by a post-war boom, the actual physical - and psychological - damages done to each nation would take far longer to heal
rabidveggie
King
- Joined
- Apr 4, 2007
- Messages
- 697
Kudos on the well written story. If I had no prior knowledge on WWI history I'd swear that what you wrote actually took place. I look forward to your stories conclusion.
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
Nope, I have Part Two all written up and ready to go when I please 
pacesplace
Prince
It's a good thing I stumbled on it only this past weekend. I don't think I could wait that long for the Germans to fall. The waiting part alone of all real four years must've been miserable. Not to mention the poison gas.
Kan' Sharuminar
Fluffy
Inevitable Conflict? The British Fight the Great War
Epilogue, Part Two
Peace had not totally descended upon Europe, as the rebellions in Russia began a civil war. For the Russians, the war of 1914 would take a decade, and see the crumbling of its empire. Nations such as Finland, Belarus and the Ukraine, the Baltic States and countries in the Caucasus such as Georgia managed full independence movements during this time, as the Czars power slipped from him. By 1924 the worst of the fighting was over, but Russia was now a second rate power in Europe. The communist revolution had failed, but the fear of another such uprising remained.
Soviet posters such as this were largely shunned across Europe
The other powers had a much easier reconstruction process, and in the post-war atmosphere times were relatively good for people. The War to end all Wars had passed, and it was widely assumed that such a disaster would never come again. British and German relations improved, as the British government moved away from their relationship with France. The Entente Cordiale with France was, while still technically active, in name only - France's inability to assist Britain in the defence of her own nation led to a great rift between the two. On the other hand, Britain had been impressed with the resolve, industrial capability and prowess of the Germans and, with their military strength curbed by Versailles, more friendly relations could be pursued.
Similarly, the American aid with Britain also improved relations between the two nations, though the former nation withdrawal into isolationism was disappointing. It was through the actions of the popular Prime Minister Churchill - his planning and execution of the Gallipoli operations bringing him immense prestige - during the twenties that really saw the two countries come closer together. This culminated during the 1930s when Japan saw fit to expand her empire in the Far East. Both Britain and America announced a defensive military alliance to weaken Japanese resolve, and promised each other assistance in the event of a potential Pacific War in the future.
The biggest threat in the post-war years was the stock market crash of 1929 and the subsequent Great Depression. While this caused particular financial problems in nations such as the United States, in Europe it gave an advantage to several political groups, such as the nationalist parties in Italy, and once again the old communist groups in France and Russia. In Italy, Benito Mussolini easily played to his nations nationalist ideals, taking advantage of the weakened state and reminding them of the disappointing gains during the Great War. His coming to power signalled the arrival of a new type of government - fascism.
Mussolini
Such groups were seen in Germany as well. The country, while stable under the continued leadership of the Kaiser, still had a crippled economy thanks to the Versailles Treaties reparation demands, and the Depression did little help to the country. Lacking any sort of charismatic leader to lead them however, the groups were little more than a minor annoyance at any political functions. For a brief period in the early 30s they enjoyed a small degree of success, but the continuing political reforms by the Kaiser to create a more democratic government proved more popular. A sudden civil war in Spain in 1936 further discredit them, as the right-wing nationalists began a battle against the largely socialist Popular Front government. The level of destruction in the war quickly saw the fascist movements discredited, and growing aid from the European countries saw the nationalists crushed. Italy was to be the only far-right country in Europe.
The aftermath of the Great War was to last well into the twentieth century, though its main legacy was its sheer pointlessness. With the exception of the shattered Ottoman and Austrian Empires, very little had changed in Europe, and America was to remain isolated for some time. There was still some tension between the remaining powers - particularly in Russia, where the inability of her allies had resulted in what many Eastern Europeans called The Western Betrayal. However, the country was never in a position to challenge for dominance, and was content to remain sidelined, fighting smaller wars against former dominions, such as the Russian-Ukrainian War in 1928. Even here, Russia was largely ineffective.
The Great War had passed, and such a war would not be repeated again throughout the first half of the century. The rise of Japan in the east, and the growing friendship between Britain and Germany, as well as with the United States, ensured that for the time being, there would be no such thing as an inevitable conflict.
Epilogue, Part Two
Peace had not totally descended upon Europe, as the rebellions in Russia began a civil war. For the Russians, the war of 1914 would take a decade, and see the crumbling of its empire. Nations such as Finland, Belarus and the Ukraine, the Baltic States and countries in the Caucasus such as Georgia managed full independence movements during this time, as the Czars power slipped from him. By 1924 the worst of the fighting was over, but Russia was now a second rate power in Europe. The communist revolution had failed, but the fear of another such uprising remained.
Soviet posters such as this were largely shunned across Europe
The other powers had a much easier reconstruction process, and in the post-war atmosphere times were relatively good for people. The War to end all Wars had passed, and it was widely assumed that such a disaster would never come again. British and German relations improved, as the British government moved away from their relationship with France. The Entente Cordiale with France was, while still technically active, in name only - France's inability to assist Britain in the defence of her own nation led to a great rift between the two. On the other hand, Britain had been impressed with the resolve, industrial capability and prowess of the Germans and, with their military strength curbed by Versailles, more friendly relations could be pursued.
Similarly, the American aid with Britain also improved relations between the two nations, though the former nation withdrawal into isolationism was disappointing. It was through the actions of the popular Prime Minister Churchill - his planning and execution of the Gallipoli operations bringing him immense prestige - during the twenties that really saw the two countries come closer together. This culminated during the 1930s when Japan saw fit to expand her empire in the Far East. Both Britain and America announced a defensive military alliance to weaken Japanese resolve, and promised each other assistance in the event of a potential Pacific War in the future.
The biggest threat in the post-war years was the stock market crash of 1929 and the subsequent Great Depression. While this caused particular financial problems in nations such as the United States, in Europe it gave an advantage to several political groups, such as the nationalist parties in Italy, and once again the old communist groups in France and Russia. In Italy, Benito Mussolini easily played to his nations nationalist ideals, taking advantage of the weakened state and reminding them of the disappointing gains during the Great War. His coming to power signalled the arrival of a new type of government - fascism.
Mussolini
Such groups were seen in Germany as well. The country, while stable under the continued leadership of the Kaiser, still had a crippled economy thanks to the Versailles Treaties reparation demands, and the Depression did little help to the country. Lacking any sort of charismatic leader to lead them however, the groups were little more than a minor annoyance at any political functions. For a brief period in the early 30s they enjoyed a small degree of success, but the continuing political reforms by the Kaiser to create a more democratic government proved more popular. A sudden civil war in Spain in 1936 further discredit them, as the right-wing nationalists began a battle against the largely socialist Popular Front government. The level of destruction in the war quickly saw the fascist movements discredited, and growing aid from the European countries saw the nationalists crushed. Italy was to be the only far-right country in Europe.
The aftermath of the Great War was to last well into the twentieth century, though its main legacy was its sheer pointlessness. With the exception of the shattered Ottoman and Austrian Empires, very little had changed in Europe, and America was to remain isolated for some time. There was still some tension between the remaining powers - particularly in Russia, where the inability of her allies had resulted in what many Eastern Europeans called The Western Betrayal. However, the country was never in a position to challenge for dominance, and was content to remain sidelined, fighting smaller wars against former dominions, such as the Russian-Ukrainian War in 1928. Even here, Russia was largely ineffective.
The Great War had passed, and such a war would not be repeated again throughout the first half of the century. The rise of Japan in the east, and the growing friendship between Britain and Germany, as well as with the United States, ensured that for the time being, there would be no such thing as an inevitable conflict.
