United Kingdom declaration of war upon Germany (1914) facts for kids

The United Kingdom declaration of war upon Germany happened on 4 August 1914. This important event marked the start of World War I for Britain. The declaration was made because Germany refused to remove its soldiers from Belgium. Belgium was a neutral country, meaning it was not supposed to take sides in a war.

Back in 1839, the United Kingdom, France, and Prussia (which later became a big part of Germany) signed a deal called the Treaty of London. This treaty promised to protect Belgium's independence. However, some historians say Britain also worried that if France lost to Germany, Germany would become too powerful in Europe.

At that time, the British government in London was in charge of foreign affairs for its many colonies and territories. So, when Britain declared war, it was on behalf of the entire British Empire. This meant countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa also joined the war.

How the War Started

Germany's Demand to Belgium

On 3 August 1914, Sir Edward Grey, who was Britain's Foreign Secretary (like a top diplomat), shared some news. He told the British Parliament that Belgium had received a message from Germany.

Germany wanted to move its troops through Belgium without any fighting. They promised to respect Belgium's independence if they agreed. But Germany also threatened to treat Belgium as an enemy if they refused. Belgium was given only twelve hours to decide.

Belgium Says No

Sir Edward Grey then told Parliament that Belgium had refused Germany's demand. Belgium said they would not agree to let German troops pass through their country. They wanted to stay neutral, as promised by the 1839 treaty.

Britain's Ultimatum

On 4 August 1914, H. H. Asquith, who was the Prime Minister of Britain, spoke to Parliament. He explained that the King of the Belgians had asked Britain for help.

Prime Minister Asquith said that Germany's demand was a clear violation of the treaty. He stated that Britain had to protest this action. Britain asked Germany to respect Belgium's neutrality and not send troops through. Britain demanded an immediate answer from Germany.

War is Declared

On 5 August 1914, Prime Minister Asquith announced to Parliament that Britain was officially at war with Germany. He said that Britain's ambassador in Berlin had received his travel papers the evening before. This meant the ambassador had to leave Germany.

Asquith also shared a message from Belgium. It confirmed that German armed forces had entered Belgian territory that morning. This was a direct violation of the treaties Germany had signed.

During the same meeting, Parliament agreed to spend £100,000,000 to help with the war effort. This was a huge amount of money at the time.

The Moment of War

Winston Churchill, who was a key leader in Britain, later described the moment war began. He wrote that the ultimatum (Germany's deadline) ended at 11 o'clock at night in London.

He was at the Admiralty, where naval decisions were made. As the famous Big Ben clock chimed midnight (German time), the order was sent. A telegram flashed to British ships and naval bases around the world. It told them to "Commence hostilities against Germany." This meant the war had officially begun for the British Empire.

See also

• Declarations of war by Great Britain and the United Kingdom
• Declarations of war during World War I
• United Kingdom declaration of war on Germany (1939)