Schlieffen Plan: Germany's WWI Strategy (1914)
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Germany's war plan called for a rapid sweep through neutral Belgium to encircle Paris before Russia could mobilize. Moltke modified Schlieffen's original plan, weakening the crucial right wing.
Modified Schlieffen Plan (Through Belgium)
1914
year
6 weeks to defeat France
speed required
Violated Belgian neutrality — brought Britain into war
diplomatic cost
Chosen — failed at the Marne, led to trench warfare
outcome
Defensive in West, Attack East
1914
year
N/A — defensive posture
speed required
Lower — no Belgian invasion
diplomatic cost
Not chosen — feared two-front war
outcome
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