World War One Causes Game

This activity is a suitable introduction to the causes of the First World War - best ‘played’ before the students have looked at the causes. It introduces some imaginary countries and raises the issues connected to the outbreak of the war, asking groups of students to act as nations representing Germany or Austria-Hungary. Through independent decision-making, most students will ‘opt’ to start the First World War without realising - only to discover that their sympathies have been with the ‘enemy’ all along. Great for looking at an alternative interpretation of ‘goodies’ and ‘baddies’ in this context.