Causes of World War I

Four Causes of WWI

• Militarism

  • Militarism is the belief that a nation should maintain a strong military and be prepared to use it aggressively to defend or promote national interests.
  • Countries competed to have the largest, most powerful military forces, including the newest and deadliest weapons.
  • The Industrial Revolution led to the creation of new technologies like tanks, hand grenades, machine guns, airplanes, poisonous gas, and flamethrowers.
  • These advancements fueled the desire for stronger militaries and a willingness to use these new weapons.

• Nationalism

  • Nationalism is intense pride and loyalty to one's nation or ethnic group.
  • Nations often sought to prove their superiority over others.
  • Nationalism can lead to a desire for independence from foreign rule or the desire to expand a nation's territory.
  • Nationalist fervor was a major motivator for conflict, encouraging nations to fight for their perceived rights.

• Imperialism

  • Imperialism is the policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force.
  • Nations competed for colonies and resources.
  • A primary motive was the acquisition of resources and expansion of power.
  • European powers, in particular, divided Africa and Southeast Asia amongst themselves.
  • This competition for resources and power often led to conflict and tension, a major contributor to World War I.

• Alliances

  • Alliances are agreements between countries to support each other.
  • European nations formed alliances to protect each other in case of attack.
  • The system of alliances created a domino effect.
  • If one country was attacked, its allies were obligated to defend it.
  • This complex web of alliances meant that a localized conflict could quickly escalate into a wider war.
  • Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy formed the Triple Alliance.
  • Britain, France, and Russia formed the Triple Entente.

This quiz explores the four major causes of World War I, focusing on militarism and nationalism, among others. Participants will learn how these factors contributed to the outbreak of the war and shaped the dynamics between nations during this tumultuous period. Test your knowledge on the historical events leading up to one of the most significant conflicts in modern history.