This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
This newspaper page contains 24 articles. Subscribers can read the full text of each article.
Newspaper
Washington Post
Location
Washington, Washington Dc, United States of America
Date
Aug 05, 1914
Page
1
In a wartime address the speaker asserts self defense with clear conscience and clean hands. He expresses resolve for unity and trust in God while noting Germany and Austria’s mobilizations necessitating Russia’s action and seeking England’s support for Russia and France.
The French president accuses Germany of treacherous moves to surprise France. France remains vigilant and peaceful, stating mobilization will be carried out methodically with covering troops ready.
The Emperor warns that if the war extends to the Far East and England is drawn in, Japan may find it necessary to participate in fulfilling the Anglo Japanese alliance. The Japanese navy has been kept in readiness to aid.
The speech argues the current global conflict stems from years of opposition to German strength and prosperity. Nations listed as at war include Russia, Germany, England, France, Austria, Servia, Belgium, and Montenegro.
Britain declares war after Germany rejects Belgian neutrality. British ambassador receives passports. a state of war exists from 11 pm August 4. Europe mobilizes with Russia France and Britain opposing Austria Hungary and Germany, while Italy neutral yet mobilizing. Sweden prepares to defend neutrality. Japan aligns with Britain. Spain ambivalent. Kongo threat noted. Proclamation of mobilization read at the royal exchange. crowd cheers.
Queen Elizabeth and Princess Marie left Brussels today for Antwerp in a sudden royal move. The development comes amid tense political unrest in Belgium as authorities monitor the situation.
London reports the British Admiralty announces government seizure of two battleships one completed and another nearly finished ordered for Turkey and two destroyers ordered for Chile. The battleships are renamed Erin and Agincourt.
Berlin Aug 4 A bill was introduced in the German imperial parliament proposing an appropriation of 1 250 000 000 dollars to meet the expenses of the war.
Berlin August 4 Emperor William opened the imperial parliament with a throne speech outlining fears of a Balkan crisis and the assassination of Archduke Francis Ferdinand as the trigger for mobilization. He notes Russia’s entry, Germany’s role as ally, and the heavy heart of war and disruption of long allied ties. The piece ends with a continuation note and a Baltimore and Ohio rail fare offer for a lake and return trip valid through August 19.
In the Commons a British speaker rebutted the Kaiser's pledge that Belgium will not be annexed after the so called menace of France was disposed of by German troops. Derisive laughter greeted the assertion as the crowd debated war aims.
London crowds cheered the king on the Buckingham Palace balcony after war was declared. A mob gathered outside the German embassy in Carlton House terrace, stones flew, and police reinforced guards. German Ambassador Prince Lichnowsky and staff were in the garden before retreating. Prime Minister Asquith outlined Britain’s demand for Belgium neutrality assurances to Germany, noting a telegram to Sir Edward Goschen.
Tokyo Aug 4 The Japanese foreign office says if the war extends to the Far East and England is involved Japan may find it necessary to participate in fulfilment of the Anglo Japanese alliance. It urges neutrality at present but warns that England participation threatening the alliance may compel Japan to take necessary measures.
A Paris dispatch says French warships have sunk the German cruiser Panther. Algerian telegrams report the German cruiser Breslau fired on Bonn, killing one and damaging buildings. An unofficial report states a French fleet captured two German cruisers Goeben and Breslau.
Brussels reports that Germans shell Liege and Namur after demanding surrender at Liege. A subsequent engagement is said to have been repulsed by defenders, as the conflict around these cities continues amid heavy shelling and allied responses.
Belfort France August 4 a number of Germans were taken prisoners and brought into Belfort. A squadron of the Eleventh French dragoons rendered funeral honors today at Joncherey to a German lieutenant the first victim of actual conflict between France and Germany. Several hundred Alsatians Swiss and Italians have enlisted here and have demanded to be sent to the advanced outposts.
London Aug 4 An order was issued this evening giving the government control of all the rail roads in Great Britain. The notice outlines immediate state supervision of railway operations and assets, signaling a major shift in transport policy amid wartime measures.
The German embassy did not notify the United States yesterday of a war state between France and Germany. It is described as tantamount to a declaration of war but is technically different.
United States faces the Panama Canal as a potential entry point into the European conflict. Officials and experts warn the waterway could become a major war menace as vessels may soon pass through. British officer Captain Rowland Lawrence cautions to watch the canal, noting Japan's fighters and the global stakes.
London dispatch says German forces captured Vise Belgium a town of about 3000 on the river Menge eight miles northeast of Liege. The report notes the seizure follows rapid advances as the war widens.
Tokyo August 4 The Japanese cruiser Chiyoda now based at Kure has been ordered to proceed hurriedly to the waters south of China as tensions in the region rise.
Government officials plan a special message urging more funds for relief work as a U S warship will transport ten million dollars in gold coin to Americans in need. Officials will accompany the ship to ensure the relief effort proceeds smoothly and transparently.
Thousands of travelers face destitution as Europe struggles with a refugee and food shortage. Germany bars foreign departures, delaying rescue efforts and leaving many families stranded abroad amid mounting hardship and uncertainty.
The President seeks immediate Congress passage of a 2 1/2 million dollar appropriation to aid American citizens in Europe. Plans coordinate relief, protection, transport, and personal services with gold shipments and naval support. Officials will distribute gold at European ports to aid stranded Americans as war movements continue.
An official on a tram reported that an assassination attempt was made on the crown prince upon reaching the German frontier. He read a telegram authorizing a search for those implicated. Meanwhile, the navy is reported at sea with the fleet.
We want people to find what they are looking for at NewspaperArchive. We are confident that we have the newspapers that will increase the value of your family history or other historical research. With our 7-day free trial, you can view the documents you find for free.
People find the most success using advanced search. Try plugging in keywords, names, dates, and locations, and get matched with results from the entire collection of newspapers at NewspaperArchive!
You can also successfully find newspapers by these browse options. Explore our archives on your own!
Browse by location and discover newspapers from all across the world.
Browse by date and find publications for a specific day or era.
Browse old newspaper publications to find specific newspapers.