Causes of World War 1
Causes of World War 1
There were many factors tha led up to the start of World War I in Europe. A lot of these factors were rooted in the deep history of the old powers of Europe including Russia, Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Britain. The real causes of World War I included politics, secret alliances, imperialism, and nationalistic pride. However, there was one single event, the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand of Austria, which started a chain of events leading to war.
Alliances and Politics
In the years leading up to the war, the nations of Europe were constantly jockeying for power and making alliances. Germany made an alliance with Austria-Hungary and Italy in 1881. These countries all agreed to protect each other in the event they were attacked by France. However, Italy then went and made a secret alliance with France saying they would not aide Germany.
In response to Germany's alliances, France and Russia established an alliance in 1892. In 1904, Britain and France signed an agreement. The Triple Entente was formed between France, Britain, and Russia in 1907. Germany felt that this powerful alliance surrounding them posed a real threat to their existence and power in the region.
Imperialism
Imperialism is when a country expands its influence and power into a large empire. Some European countries, such as France and Britain, had created large worldwide empires and had become very rich. Other European countries, such as Russia and Germany, wanted to create their own vast empires. This caused competition and conflict between many of the countries throughout the world.
Nationalism
Germany had a very nationalistic attitude. They believed they were better than all the other countries. Nationalism paved way for a large military which Germany was eager to use and show them of to the world
Assassination of Archduke Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand was the heir to the Austria-Hungarian throne. He went to visit Bulgaria with his wife. Meanwhile the Black Hand terrorist group which was aided by Serbia plotted to kill Ferdinand.They were successful. His death led to chain of events. As the murder came as shock to Austria, relations with Serbia broke down. Them because of the alliance system all major European powers were involved
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