Causes of World War I: MANIA

Causes of World War I

• Militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism were major contributors to the outbreak.
• The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 was the immediate trigger for the war.

Trench Warfare Characteristics

• Trench warfare led to stagnant frontlines with soldiers living in harsh conditions.
• Notable features included mud, lice, and the threat of enemy attacks from opposing trenches.

Treaty of Versailles Provisions

• The Treaty imposed significant reparations and territorial losses on Germany.
• Germany was required to accept full responsibility for the war, known as the "War Guilt Clause."

Modern Military Technology

• World War I saw the introduction of tanks, machine guns, and chemical weapons that changed battlefield tactics.
• Aircraft also began to play a critical role in reconnaissance and bombing missions.

Total War Aspect

• 'Total war' characterized the mobilization of entire nations, including civilian populations and economies.
• Resources were heavily directed toward the war effort, altering industrial and agricultural production.

Effects of the Treaty of Versailles

• The Treaty contributed to widespread economic hardship and political instability in Germany.
• It also sowed discontent that fueled extremist movements and eventual conflict in the years following the war.

Bolshevik/Russian Revolution Outcome

• The Bolshevik Revolution resulted in the establishment of a communist government in Russia.
• It led to Russia's withdrawal from World War I and the signing of the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk.

Great Depression Spread

• The Great Depression began in the U.S. due to stock market crashes and economic downturns and spread through international trade and investment ties.
• Global economic interdependence facilitated the rapid dissemination of its effects worldwide.

Rise of Totalitarian States

• Post-World War I conditions, such as economic instability and political unrest, enabled the rise of totalitarian regimes.
• Fascism and communism gained popularity as they promised strong leadership and solutions to national crises.

Wilson's 14 Points Influence

• President Wilson’s 14 Points advocated for self-determination and the establishment of the League of Nations.
• Although influential, many were compromised in the negotiation of the Treaty of Versailles.

League of Nations Challenges

• The League faced difficulties in enforcing resolutions due to lack of military power and the absence of major nations, such as the U.S.
• Decisions often required unanimous consent, making action slow and challenging.