Causes of World War I

Introduction

• Explanation of the main causes of World War I.
• Focus on four main causes: Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, Nationalism.

Militarism

• Belief in building strong militaries and using them aggressively.
• Industrialization allowed for rapid production of deadlier military weapons.
• Germany's unification led to rapid industrialization and military buildup.
• Germany had the most powerful military force in Europe.
• France felt threatened due to a weaker military.
• Britain had a large empire and military but at a greater economic cost.

Alliances

• Early 20th century Europe had two major alliances:
  • Triple Alliance: Germany, Italy, Austro-Hungarian Empire.
  • Triple Entente: Britain, France, Russia.
• Alliances created for national security and to isolate rivals.
• Alliances led to military mobilization plans and railroad construction.
• Mobilization plans were precise and difficult to halt once started.

Imperialism

• Previous period characterized by imperial expansion.
• Desire for power projection led to competition and conflict.
• Germany was a key agitator, seeking to expand at others' expense.
• Conflicts over existing colonies contributed to alliance formation.

Nationalism

• Nationalism emphasized national glory and defined others as enemies.
• Schools, media, and military service promoted nationalistic messages.
• Nationalism made compromise difficult, fueling conflicts.

Assassination in the Balkans

• Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip.
• Nationalism led to the assassination; Austria-Hungary viewed it as a severe act needing retaliation.
• Alliances and mobilization plans activated following the assassination.
• Resulted in the outbreak of World War I.

Conclusion

• Combination of militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism led to a larger conflict.
• The assassination acted as the spark that ignited World War I.

Further Learning

• Next video will cover the progression of World War I.
• Note guides available for further study.