Nationalism Similar to patriotismSimilar to patriotism Ethnic groups of similar heritage wanted to free their oppressed brethren and unit Countries proud of their heritage and culture Unite their people into one country Germany wanted to expand its culture and political influence throughout Europe.Germany wanted to expand its culture and political influence throughout Europe.

Imperialism France, Great Britain, Germany and Russia were establishing colonies in Africa and Asia economic and political control over other countries……economic and political control over other countries…… these countries were in competition for colonies

Colonial Holdings- 1900

Militarism European nations began an arms race as they competed for colonies around the world……

Militarism & Arms Race Total Defense Expenditures for the Great Powers [Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy, France, British and Russia] in millions of dollars Increase in Defense Expenditures France10% Britain13% Russia39% Germany73%

Alliances balance of powerEuropean nations began forming military alliances with one another to maintain a balance of power …….. Central PowersAllied Powers GermanyGreat Britain Austria-Hungary France BulgariaRussia

Garvillo Princip, a Serbian nationalist assassinated the Archduke. He was trying to gain allowances for his fellow Serbs who lived under Austrian rule. Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his family. Archduke was heir to the throne in the Austrian Hungarian Empire. His assassination June 28, 1914 eventually led to WWI.

New Types of Weapons

US Position on the War until April, 1917 President Wilson Calls for neutrality = conflicting sympathies US belief = right to trade with all nations