We now have a divided Europe, a 'powder keg waiting to explode'. After the Conference of Berlin, and even before, the major political powers of Europe were taking sides, forming alliances, and readying for the unavoidable - war.What was thought to be a quick war, or hoped to contain to a regional skirmish, quickly developed into full blown war.
In class we'll talk some of the specifics as to what went on during WWI, and even some of the events that led to WWI, and the treaty that ended it. Here's your challenge ...
Within groups of 3 to 4, you will be assigned a country. Your job is to create a parody/satire mini-movie/documentary (call it a mockumentary) on who is really to blame for the start of WWI. Keep in mind a few things ...
1. You will not take blame for starting the war, that would have devastating costs at the Treaty of Versailles.
2. Remember your allies.
3. Remember your rivals (both current and historic).
4. Be sensitive to groups of people and or particular people. Yes we are using satire, but we are not being insensitive.
5. Make references to actual events - sinking of ships, alliances, political flip-flops, assassinations and the like. You are making a case as to why it's not your fault war started, but it is somebody's fault - who and why?
Our Characters (or shall we call them suspects) ...
- Great Britain
- France
- Russia
- Germany
- Austria-Hungry and Serbia
- Italy
You will turn-in or have an approved script BEFORE you begin filming!
Script is due on Tuesday (2/17) by the end of class. Your video, completely edited and ready to watch, is due at the beginning of class on Monday (2/23). We will discuss a few things in class during the week, so make a plan. You will also have a Ch. 25 Reading Quiz on Wednesday (2/18) - you will e permitted to use hand-written notes, not the reading packet itself.
