Question

What factors led Germany to agree to an armistice?

the split of Austria-Hungary
the possible invasion of Germany
Wilson's 14 points
the threat of Chinese involvement
the Communist takeover in Russia
the improving military strength of the Entente (Allies)

Answer 1

Correct factors: the split (collapse) of Austria-Hungary; Wilson’s Fourteen Points; the improving military strength of the Entente (Allies); the threat of possible invasion/occupation of Germany.

Brief explanation:
- Split/collapse of Austria-Hungary: the disintegration of Germany’s main ally left Germany strategically isolated and deprived it of fronts/resources, making continued war untenable.
- Improving Allied strength/Hundred Days offensives: the Allied counter-offensives in 1918 pushed the German army back, exhausted its forces, and made victory impossible.
- Threat of invasion/occupation: with the front collapsing and allied forces advancing, German leaders feared invasion and occupation of German territory and loss of control at home.
- Wilson’s 14 Points: Germany’s civilian government hoped an armistice negotiated on Wilsonian principles would secure more lenient peace terms and international legitimacy; appeals to Wilson helped precipitate negotiations.

Not factors:
- Communist takeover in Russia: the Bolshevik Revolution had removed Russia from the war (Treaty of Brest-Litovsk), which had actually helped Germany earlier rather than forcing it to seek armistice.
- Threat of Chinese involvement: China’s role was minimal (mostly labor corps) and its “threat” was not a reason Germany sought an armistice.