August 4, 1914

[jonnymacbrown]

Great Britain protests German violation of Belgian treaty.

Germany invades Belgium at Gemmenich, burns Vise and attacks Liege.

Germany then declares war on Belgium.

Bona and Philippeville (Algeria) bombarded by German cruisers Goeben and Breslau and the cruisers begin their cross-Mediterranean odyssey.

Sir Edward Grey wires to Sir E. Goschen telling him that unless satisfactory German assurances re: Belgian neutrality are forthcoming, he is to ask for his passports.

Sir John Jellicoe takes command of British Fleet.

British declare war at 11 p.m.