The major world event that began on July 28, 1914, was World War I. Often referred to as "The Great War," this conflict lasted until November 11, 1918, and involved many of the world's great powers, divided into two main alliances: the Allies and the Central Powers. The war was triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary and was characterized by trench warfare, significant battles, and unprecedented loss of life. The outcomes of World War I reshaped borders, influenced later geopolitical climates, and set the stage for subsequent global conflicts, including World War II.