The Seeds of War Academic World History II

European Rivalries As western nations industrialized, each wanted the most favorable conditions for economic growth. – This led to competition in trying to acquire new markets and expand empires. – This competition turned to hostility as powers began crossing one another while trying to reach their goals. Great Britain and France quarreled over Egypt and Sudan. When Germany began building the Berlin-Baghdad railway, Great Britain and Russia became angry. Germany and France argued over Morocco.

Nationalism A growing spirit of nationalism was contributing to European rivalries. – France was angry at Germany over German possession of Alsace-Lorraine. – Nationalism created violent tension in Austria-Hungary. The Slavs in Austria-Hungary wanted their own nation, which would come from Slavic areas in Austria-Hungary. Serbia supported the Slavs and this angered Austria-Hungary. – In 1908, Austria-Hungary annexed Bosnia-Herzegovina. Serbia asked Russia for help, however Russia was not ready to fight.

Nationalism, cont. The Russians already made a deal with Austria-Hungary to let them have Bosnia-Herzegovina. Austria-Hungary made this move before Russia got their part of the deal, making the Russians bitter. Balkan Wars also led to hostility. – Serbia wanted to acquire Albania for access to the Mediterranean Sea. After winning the war, Serbia didn’t get Albania, leading to more resentment. – A second Balkan war broke out in 1913, and Albania was made independent. Russia was unable to help the Serbs, this angered the Serbs and humiliated Russia. Austria-Hungary was concerned about its future in European affairs.

Militarism As tensions rose in Europe, so did militarism. – Militarism – glorification of war and the military. – European powers attempted to increase military strength. Military leaders urged their countries to increase spending and acquire new arms. – Many powers used conscription, the call up of civilians for military service. – The actions of one nation would lead to another nation reacting, creating an arms race.

Alliances Alliance systems, or defense agreements among nations were created. – In 1882, the Triple Alliance (Central Powers) was formed. Austria-Hungary, Germany, Italy. – In the late 1800s, the Triple Entente (Allied Powers) was formed. Entente – friendly understanding between nations that lacks the binding commitment of a full alliance. France, Russia, and Great Britain. – Instead of making members more secure, these alliances threatened peace in Europe.Europe

Europe, 1914