Vine in 1914: Germany Occupies Brussels

Germany invaded Belgium on 4 August 1914 - a move that led directly to Britain becoming involved in the war.

By 20 August, German troops had reached the gates of the Belgian capital, Brussels.

The Mayor of Brussels, Adolphe Max, tried to persuade the army not to go through his city, but his efforts were in vain. That afternoon, the Germans took control of Brussels, and a German flag was hoisted on the City Hall.