This podcast episode explores the events leading up to the outbreak of the First World War, focusing on the crucial moments and tensions between major powers. It discusses the significance of the meeting between the Tsar and the President of the French Republic, the importance of controlling the straits for Russia, the urgency to prevent the expansion of the Ottoman navy, the Austro-Serbian crisis, the Franco-Russian alliance, France's perspective on the Balkans, the diplomatic events surrounding Poincaré's visit to St. Petersburg, and the Austrian ultimatum to Serbia. It highlights the role of key figures like Sergei Sazonov and Maurice Palaiologues, as well as the pivotal decision by Russia to mobilize their troops. The episode concludes with the world on the brink of global conflict.
