1. The Great War ( World War I)

2. I. Underlying Causes (built up over time causing tension)

3. A. Militarism Germany – built up its military to rival Britain
2.France-
reacts to protect itself
- its right next
to Germany

4. B. Alliances
1. European powers try to maintain balance by forming alliances with each other 2. All members will fight if one is attacked 3. Germany/Austria-Hungary ( Central Powers ) VS. Britain/France/Russia ( Allied Powers)

5. C. Imperialism
Germany tries to get African
colonies
2.Britain &
France
view this as
a threat

6. D. Nationalism France wanted Alsace-Lorraine back from Germany
2.Eastern European ethnic groups
want own, free nations

7. tensions steadily building for years
Result = by 1914 –
tensions steadily building for years
1. Britain afraid of German ambitions for colonies,
a strong navy, & competition from its growing
industrial economy
2. Austria-Hungary afraid of rebellious Serbs within its
borders & Russia’s support of Serbia
3. Russia afraid of German support of Austria-Hungary

8. II. Immediate Cause ( event that sparks outbreak of war)
A. June 28, 1914, Austria-Hungary’ heir Archduke Franz Ferdinand assassinated by Serb nationalist named Princip ( member of terrorist group
(Black Hand)
B. Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia
C. Russia must defend Serbia; declares war on A-H
D. Germany must defend A-H; declares war on Russia
E. Britain & France must defend Russia;
declare war on Germany
F. Result = All major European powers
at war