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Chapter 3 · A long and illustrious history

Life in the UK test questions on the First World War

The First World War began in 1914 after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and ended at 11am on 11 November 1918. Britain fought alongside the Allies against the Central Powers. More than a million British and Commonwealth troops died, over 60,000 of them wounded or killed on the first day of the Battle of the Somme alone.

Below are 5 free questions on the First World War, taken from handbook section 3.16. Every one is written out in full with its answer and a plain-English explanation — no account, no sign-up and nothing hidden.

Practise the First World War

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Questions and answers on the First World War

The same 5 questions again, this time with the answers shown. Read the explanation even where you were right — the test asks the same facts several ways.

  1. 1. In which year did the First World War begin?

    • 1912
    • 1914 — correct answer
    • 1916
    • 1918

    The First World War began in 1914. It was fought on a scale nobody had seen before. Handbook section 3.16.

  2. 2. On which date did the First World War end?

    • 8 May 1945
    • 3 September 1939
    • 11 November 1918 — correct answer
    • 1 July 1916

    The First World War ended at 11 o'clock in the morning on 11 November 1918, with victory for Britain and its allies. Handbook section 3.16.

  3. 3. Which of these countries did Britain fight against in the First World War?

    • Russia
    • Belgium
    • Germany — correct answer
    • France

    Britain fought against Germany, Austria-Hungary, Turkey and Bulgaria. France and Russia were its allies. Handbook section 3.16.

  4. 4. Which TWO statements about the First World War are true?

    • It ended on 11 November 1918 — correct answer
    • Britain fought against Germany — correct answer
    • Britain fought against France
    • It began in 1939

    The war ended on 11 November 1918 and Britain fought against Germany. France was Britain's ally, and 1939 was the start of the Second World War. Handbook section 3.16.

  5. 5. In which year was the Battle of the Somme fought?

    • 1918
    • 1914
    • 1915
    • 1916 — correct answer

    The Battle of the Somme was fought in 1916. It is remembered as one of the bloodiest battles in British history. Handbook section 3.16.

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