Causes of WWI

Imperialism  Scrambling for colonies to improve economy of their countries  Particularly in Asia and Africa  Creates rivalries between nations

Nationalism  Countries acting in their own national interest  Diverse populations where the ethnic minority wants independence  Both can lead to violence

Militarism  Policy involving aggressively building up a nation’s armed forces in preparation for war.  Military gains more authority  Endless planning for war

Mobilization  The readying of troops for war  Sets the tone for war German High Seas fleet in the North Sea. U-boats lined up at the docks Canadians get a lift on a British Mark IV French SchneiderThe Hornsby

Alliances  Complicated system of alliances throughout Europe during the 19 th Century  Allied Powers: France, Russia, Great Britain and Italy  Central Powers: Germany, Austria- Hungary, Bulgaria, Ottoman Empire (Turkey)

 British 18-pounder being aimed by its crew. German 42cm "Big Bertha“, named for Bertha Krupp. German 17cm railway gun French troops loading a 40cm shell into a railway gun This howitzer was produced by the Skoda arms works in Austria French 75mm. Rapid firing and accurate. It was a common artillery piece among the allies. Note the spent casing in the air

Assassination of Archduke Ferdinand  The couple leaving Sarajevo City Hall and entering the car for the last time  The successful assassin, Gavrilo Princip.