History of Europe

How long did the triple alliance and entente last?

The Triple Alliance was a secret defensive pact between Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, signed in 1882. It was renewed several times, most recently in 1907. The Triple Entente was a loose agreement between Britain, France, and Russia, formed in response to the Triple Alliance. It was not a formal alliance, and the three countries did not agree to come to each other's aid in the event of war. The Triple Entente lasted until the outbreak of World War I in 1914, when it was replaced by the Allied Powers. The Triple Alliance effectively ended in 1915 when Italy switched sides and joined the Allies, although it remained formally in effect until the defeat of Germany and Austria-Hungary at the end of World War I.