“The strategic errors of the Central Powers were the most significant reason for their defeat in 1918.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the strategic errors of the Central Powers were the most significant reason for their defeat in 1918. Candidates may refer to military tactics and errors such as the Schlieffen Plan; events such as the battle of the Marne or Verdun; or unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany, which could be considered a cause of the US entry into the war and significant to their defeat. Some may argue that the continuation of German offensives in 1917–1918 contributed to their defeat or that the weakness and different power balance between the Central Powers and the Entente was a significant reason. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, the internal domestic challenges within the Central Powers, the crumbling of Germany’s allies or the differing levels of economic resources on both sides. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the strategic errors of the Central Powers were the most significant reason for their defeat in 1918. This was a popular question. There were some excellent responses with in-depth knowledge which discussed strategic errors as well as a wealth of other reasons for the Central Powers' defeat; including domestic problems in Germany, Germany's weak allies, the strength of the Entente powers and the role of the US.