MILITARISM
ALLIANCES
IMPERIAL COMPETITION
NATIONALISM
Throughout the early years of the 20th century, military breakthroughs transformed the power and capabilities of militaries throughout the world. Innovation quickly led to a global competition as countries began to stockpile weapons, expand their military sizes, and mobilize these units for conflict.
Between 1870 and 1914, a web of alliances were created among the global powers.The Triple Alliance of 1882 linked Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy while theThe Triple Entente of 1907 linked France, Britain and Russia. In 1914, these alliances created a domino effect of conflict where countries were pulled into the war to protect their allies.
From 1870 to 1914, the Age of New Imperialism swept throughout the World. European nations pursued aggressive imperialism policies. Countries like Britain and France expanded their reach throughout the globe. As colonization increased, so did the competition and tension between global powers over land and resources.
Nationalism is a deep sense of patriotism for one's country. Due to the rise of pre-war imperialism and expanding borders, nations developed a sense of superiority and placed their own interests well ahead of others. Nationalism gave nations overconfidence in their military might, which helped set the stage for World War I.
M.A.I.N. Causes of World War I
Germany
Italy
Austria-Hungary
Russia
France
Britain
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The Triple Alliance
(1882)
The Triple Entente
(1907)