World War I, Introduction
Europe on the Eve of War (1914) Europe’s great powers: Germany Austria-Hungary Great Britain Russia Italy France
Europe on the Eve of War (1914) ► By 1914 the major European countries had colonized the world. ► Countries had to compete for resources= resulted in rivalry and mistrust ► Countries began building their armies just in case war broke out. just in case war broke out.
The Triple Alliance ► Germany believed France was the biggest threat to peace in Europe. ► To isolate France, Germany formed an alliance with Austria- Hungary and Italy.
The Triple Entente ► France and Great Britain became alarmed by the German alliance and joined with Russia
The “MAIN” Causes of World War
“M” Militarism ► The glorification of armed strength and the ideals of war caused countries to build huge armies and navies ► “arms race” Britain vs. Germany
“A” Alliances ► No European power wanted to fight alone ► The system of alliances was formed : Triple Entente- Britain, Russia, and France Triple Alliance- Germany, Austria- Hungary, and Italy
“I” Imperialism ► The race to get overseas colonies and economic resources led to conflict between the European nations
“N” Nationalism ► Great pride in one’s own country, or aspiring to become independent countries ► Nationalism often reflected in songs, art, and media
Next Up ► Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand ► Gavrilo Princip and The Black Hand ► An ultimatum to Serbia ► The Start of WWI