The First World War Part I: Causes of WWI Adams 2009

Causes of World War One

1. Nationalism Devotion to the interests and culture of one’s nation Causes nations to compete Also to antagonize each other Many nations feared Germany’s growing power

Nationalism Ethnic groups like Serbs, Bosnians were resentful. Wanted independence Looked to larger nations – like Russia – for protection

Nationalism Russia saw itself as protector of Slavic peoples No matter whose rule they lived under Slavic people: diverse ethnic group from Eastern Europe

Nationalism Serbs-Lived in Serbia in the Balkans Balkans – independent nation BUT

Nationalism Millions of ethnic Serbs lived under Austro-Hungarian rule This made Russia and Austria-Hungary rivals for power over Serbia.

2. Imperialism European nations had been building empires for centuries. Colonies Extended European political and economic powers. Raw materials and markets for manufactured goods.

Imperialism Germany became more industrialized Competed with Britain and France In contest for colonies

3. Militarism Empires = expensive to build and defend Increased military spending as nationalism and imperialism grew

3. Militarism Each nation wanted stronger armed forces than potential enemies had Arms Race

3. Militarism Militarism = development of armed forces which are then used as a tool of diplomacy

3. Militarism Soon Britain, France, Italy, Japan, and United States join arms race To compete with Germany Build biggest battleships, destroyers

4. Alliance System Triple Entente Later known as “Allies” France Britain Russia

4. Alliance System Triple Alliance Germany Austria-Hungary Italy Later known as “Central Powers”

4. Alliance System Created a “balance of powers” No one wanted to disturb it Feared war would be the result