1. The Causes of World war I
ChC 2D

2. Alliances
Alliances are formed when countries band together against a common threat and pledge to support each other in times of war.

3. France formed alliances with Russia and Britain in what was known as the Triple Entente or “Allies”
Germany joined forces with Austria-Hungary and Italy to form the Triple Alliance or Central Powers. When the war started, Italy left the central powers to join the Triple Entente.
These alliances were dangerous because they increased fear and suspicion among rival nations.

4. Imperialism
Imperialism was gaining momentum during the late 19th and early 20th century. European nations were interested in gaining colonies away from the home country and building huge empires. These colonies were lucrative so everyone wanted to obtain colonies.
By the time Germany began to build an empire all that remained were useless territories. This led to resentment and frequent clashes.

5. Militarism
Militarism is the belief in the power of strong armies and navies to decide issues. The only way to maintain peace was to prepare for war.
Militarism led to an arms race in Europe. Each nation produced battleships, high powered guns and explosives. The size of armies determined who would be the most powerful nation.

6. Nationalism
Nationalism is a feeling of deep loyalty to ones people and homeland. This nationalism caused problems in Europe. Some people would go to great lengths to support or promote their nation.

7. Ultimatum
An ultimatum is a demand by one government that another gov’t accept its terms or face war. Austria-Hungary insisted that Serbia:
Put down all hatred against Austria-Hungary
Punish those involved in the assasination plot
Allow Austro-Hungarian officials into Serbia to help crush the Black Hand
Serbia refused to allow Austria Hungary into their country.

8. A-H declared war on Serbia.
Russia mobilized its army (as an ally to the Serbs)
France mobilized its forces(as an ally to Russia)
Germany declared war on Russia and France
Britain signed a treaty guaranteeing that it would protect the neutrality of Belgium. Germany planned to attack France through Belgium. This led to Britain declaring war on Germany