The Causes of the Great War Militarism Alliance

The Causes of the Great War Militarism, Alliance System, Nationalism, Imperialism & Assassination

Militarism � A Political Philosophy (A way of making Governmental Decisions) � Attempting to solve political issues through Threats, Brinksmanship (almost going to war), and War � Common attitude among European Powers before 1914 � Started with Germany (became extremely large and powerful after winning three wars)

Consequences of Militarism � Billions of dollars spent on building massive army’s and weapons (for example Germany’s Army in 1914 had approx. 8 million men, France: 6 million, Russia: 10 Million � Arms Race (new battleships known as Dreadnoughts built by Germany and Britain) � Bad relations between nations

Alliance System � Germany was once 32 separate nations � In 1871, these small nations joined to form the most powerful nation in the world � The new Germany was careful not to start problems. However, after a new king entered power (Kaiser Wilhelm II), Germany became aggressive, interfered in the business of other nations, built a powerful navy, & pushed for colonies around the world

Alliance System Part 2 � Germany’s aggression soon provoked France and Russia to from an alliance (Dual Entente) � Germany’s new navy scared Britain into join France and Russia (Triple Entente) � In response, Germany formed an alliance with Austria/Hungary and Italy

Consequences of Alliances �An attack on one was an attack on all �Therefore, no little conflicts �If something starts (no matter who starts it or why), everyone will eventually fight

Nationalism � A belief that people of similar cultures should be united � Extreme pride and willingness to sacrifice for your country � All of Europe was very Nationalistic in 1914

Consequences of Nationalism �Led to bad relations between nations �Best example is Russia �Russia thought it had the right to protect the Balkans because they shared a similar culture

Imperialism � European nations were trying to build “Empires” by conquering other nations (Africa and Asia) � England France became very rich because of their colonies � Germany wanted colonies as well and threatened British and French interests � Austria expanded its Empire by conquering much of the Balkans

Consequences of Imperialism �Conflict between Britain and France vs. Germany �Conflict between Russia and Austria (over Balkans)

Assassination � Another Lesson!!!!!

Study Points �Long term Causes of WWI Militarism (solving problems through war) Alliance System (Triple Alliance vs. Triple Entente) Nationalism (Too much pride in your country) Imperialism (competition for colonies) �Short Term Cause of WWI Assassination M. A. N. I. A