Q&A · 2:40:02-2:40:22

Without the invasion of Belgium, Britain might remain outside the war

The British Army's preference for intervention did not by itself guarantee entry into the First World War without the political shock of Belgium's invasion.

Alternate History British Politics Invasion Of Belgium World War I

Watch at this time Full video guide

Question

Would Britain enter the First World War if Germany did not invade Belgium in 1914?

Short answer

Probably not; the Army wanted involvement, but the wider government lacked the same commitment without Belgium's invasion.

Notes

Without Germany's invasion of Belgium in 1914, British entry into the war becomes unlikely rather than impossible. The Army favored involvement, while much of the government did not. Belgium therefore acted as a decisive political trigger in the opening campaign.