1. Causes of WWI

2. WWI began in 1914, but the causes developed long before.
Four main causes: M.A.I.N.
Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, Nationalism
These four causes were called the “powder keg” – four components, when put together, would eventually explode

3. Imperialism
Created competition
Potential for conflict (over territory) was always present

4. Militarism
To protect colonial territory, Europeans adopted a “militaristic” stance
Was a sign of power to have a large army or navy
European countries adopted “standing armies” – armies that exist even during peacetime
Definition of term:
Glorification of armed strength
War is seen as noble and honorable
A danger: Countries compete to build the most powerful armed forces

5. Nationalism
Combined with Imperialism & Militarism, Nationalism suddenly becomes dangerous
Nationalism led to:
Desire to be most powerful = Military build-up
Thousands of young men willing to go to war
Two kinds:
Imperial countries (pride in conquest & domination)
Countries under imperial control (led to rebellions)

6. Alliances Countries did not want to fight alone
A series of alliances was formed.

7. GERMANY Early German goal: stay out of a two-front war
Prior to alliances with: Austria-Hungary, Italy, Russia
But, Russia & A-H had tension over Balkan region
1890: Kaiser Wilhelm II took power
Allowed alliance with Russia to dissolve
1894: Russia allies with France
Wilhelm II then builds up navy (to rival Britain)
1907: Britain allies with Russia & France

8. By 1907, there are two rival groups in Europe:
Triple Entente: Britain, France, Russia
Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy