Causes of WwI
Militarism Countries begin building up arms and armies Arms race (“out do” one another) Belief that a strong army is a necessity Glorification of war
Alliances Nations did not trust one another and looked for “friends” they could trust Two main alliances: Triple Alliance: Germany, Italy, Austria-Hungary Triple Entente: Britain (and its colonies), France, Russia, Serbia
Imperialism Empire building- taking over other countries/regions Created rivalry/competition for land and resources (in Africa and Asia) Austria-Hungary controlled many ethnic groups in the Balkan region
Nationalism Extreme pride in one’s country Causes dislike for other countries Causes competition with other countries Slavic groups ruled by Austria-Hungary wanted independence
The Spark Archduke Franz Ferdinand is assassinated in Sarajevo, Bosnia Austria-Hungary blames Serbia and declares war! So who is actually to blame?