2. Pre- WW1: History
Carolingian Empire, then the Holy Roman Empire over a period of a millenia.
Created Empire in Versailles in 1871, with Otto von Bismarck as Chancellor, after the Franco- Prussian War.
United all German territories except Austria, and became imperialistic.

3. Allies after formation
Bismarck's policy created an alliance with Austria- Hungary. Gave total military support (Blank Check).
The Blank Check was an assurance that Germany would militaristically and economically support AH.
Created the Triple Alliance of 1882, including Italy, because of their cautions and beliefs that the French and Russians would invade.

4. Reasons Short term: Long term: AH's invasion of Serbia.
Russia's moblization in the borders of Serbia.
Assassination of Archduke Ferdinand (although that would be AH's main reason.
Long term:
Breaking of the Alliance of the Three Emperors.
Russia allied with France (Conflict left from the Fraco- Prussian War)
Preemptive strike against France to protect the rear.