Use the map of Europe in 1914 below to answer the following question:

The map of Europe shows Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy in the center, highlighted in orange. To the east, Russia is highlighted in grey. To the west, France and Britain are also highlighted in grey. (Public Domain)

Which of the following best describes the highlighted nations of Austria-Hungary, Germany, and Italy?

A. Members of the Triple Entente who were allied with Russia
B. Members of the Triple Entente who later became the Central Powers
C. Members of the Triple Alliance who were allied with France
D. Members of the Triple Alliance who later became the Central Powers

The highlighted nations of Austria-Hungary, Germany, and Italy in the map of Europe in 1914 are best described as members of the Triple Alliance who later became the Central Powers. Therefore, the correct answer is the last option.

In 1914, just before the outbreak of World War I, Austria-Hungary, Germany, and Italy were part of the Triple Alliance, a military agreement formed in 1882. This alliance was created as a counterbalance to the Triple Entente, an opposing alliance composed of France, Britain, and Russia.

The purpose of the Triple Alliance was to ensure mutual defense and support among the member nations against potential threats. When World War I began, Austria-Hungary and Germany joined forces as part of the Central Powers. Although Italy initially remained neutral, it eventually entered the war on the side of the Allies in 1915.

In conclusion, the highlighted nations of Austria-Hungary, Germany, and Italy were originally part of the Triple Alliance, but when World War I broke out, Austria-Hungary and Germany became known as the Central Powers. Italy's participation in the war was delayed, and it later joined the Allies. Thus, the correct description for the highlighted nations is that they were members of the Triple Alliance who later became the Central Powers.