Why was it possible for the Netherlands but not Belgium to maintain neutrality during Germany’s attack on France in World War I?

Question

Why was it possible for the Netherlands but not Belgium to maintain neutrality during Germany’s attack on France in World War I?

A. The Netherlands had a close connection to Britain, but Belgium did not.
B. Germany had to invade Belgium, but not the Netherlands, to get to northern France.
C. France had a treaty with the Netherlands, but not Belgium.
D. The Netherlands’ borders were well guarded by the Russians.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B. Germany had to invade Belgium, but not the Netherlands, to get to northern France. The German invasion of Belgium was a key part of their attack plan in World War I, as they sought to quickly take control of France by bypassing the heavily fortified Franco-German border by going through Belgium. In contrast, the Netherlands’ borders did not pose a strategic obstacle for Germany and they were therefore able to maintain neutrality.