What was the main message of republican candidates in the elections of 1854?

Although a number of things brought about world war one there was one even that push to europe over the edge. what was that event?

Trench warfare began after germany failed in its initial plan to seize france and bring a quick end to the war. negotiate a temporary truce with the allied forces. attack the allies by sea with its powerful navy. storm across the eastern front to attack russia.

What is zinn's approach to the study of history? what does he suggest occurs when history is told is the story of human progress?