5 August 1914

100 years ago today: Great Britain has declared war on Germany following the sinking of a British mine-layer by the German fleet.  The Germans are reported to be advancing on Liège and Germany has declared war on France although Austria-Hungary has not yet declared war on either Russia or France.  Britain’s railways have been placed under military control.  The fleet is already on a war footing with the army likely to be so within a few days and the call to arms has been met with a “rapid and enthusiastic response”.  Australia has offered all her ships and 20,000 men. 

2 August 1914

100 years ago today: a special Sunday edition of the Telegraph due to escalating crisis in Europe.  Germany has declared war on Russia.  Both Germany and France have ordered the mobilisation of all their forces.  Italy has declared her intention to remain neutral.  At present the Government has not decided whether to interfere or not with the war in Europe but “it may be taken for granted that [England] will be absolutely loyal to her friends”.  There is very little hope that war between France and Germany will be averted.  The bank rate has increased from eight to ten percent.

29 July 1914

100 years ago today: Austria-Hungary has declared war on Servia due to Servia’s unsatisfactory response to the Note presented to her.  “The event which all the world dreaded is today realised”.  Both Germany and Austria-Hungary have declined to participate in Sir Edward Grey’s proposed conference which appeared to have been supported by France and Italy.  It is hoped that if Austria is contented with just the occupation of Belgrade then perhaps the Russians will not declare war; however if Austria continues her assault upon Servia, then “Russia must and will intervene”. The German naval fleet has been ordered to return.