1. History, Culture and Geography
Causes of WWI
History, Culture and Geography

2. Long Term Causes - Nationalism
Nationalism becomes important (dominance and prestige).
1871 Germany and Italy officially become nations – they want to catch up with Britain, France.
Pride in country based upon # of factories, # of colonies.
“Rah, Rah my country”.

3. Long Term Causes - Imperialism
Nationalism and industrialization tied to colonies.
Competition for colonies increases tension…see map on next slide!
European nations military, political, and economic domination of Africa and Asia builds confidence

4. Why would countries want to “imperialize” or take over others?!

5. Long Term Causes - Militarism
Between European nations increase military spending by 400%
Many believed war was coming because of competition, began preparing (Arms race)

6. Short Term Causes (Alliance)
Triple Alliance - Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy
Germany secretly told Austria-Hungary they would support them no matter what happened – called the “blank check”

7. Short Term Causes (Entente)
Triple Entente England, France, and Russia – Treaty of Friendship
France was concerned about Germany’s growing military
England/Russia was concerned with Germany’s navy