First Battle of WWI

The first battle of World War I is generally considered the Battle of Liège, which took place from August 5 to August 16, 1914. Liège was a strategically important city in Belgium, and its fortifications played a crucial role in the German invasion of Belgium.

During the battle, the heavily fortified city of Liège was defended by Belgian forces against the advancing German army. The Belgian defenders put up a valiant resistance, but they were ultimately overwhelmed by the superior firepower and numbers of the German forces. The Germans utilized heavy artillery, including howitzers and siege guns, to bombard the fortifications and breach the defensive lines.

The fall of Liège marked the initial success of the German Schlieffen Plan, which aimed to defeat France by invading Belgium and swiftly encircling Paris. Although the Belgian forces could not hold off the German advance, their resistance at Liège delayed it, allowing the French and British armies more time to mobilize.

It's worth noting that some other minor engagements and skirmishes occurred before the Battle of Liège, as various nations mobilized their forces and clashed along their borders. However, Liège is often considered the first major battle of World War I.