Origins of World War I (The Great War)

Art Lewandowski Fostoria High School

Four Long Term Causes 

M

ilitarism 

A

lliances 

I

mperialism 

N

ationalism

Imperialism  Dominating countries politically and economically  Closely linked to industry – Need for raw materials and markets

Imperialism Cont.

 Causes tension  Examples – Russo-Japanese War over Korea – France and Great Britain nearly went to war in Africa

Nationalism  Belief that national interests and national unity should be placed ahead of global cooperation  Self-interest to guide foreign affairs

Nationalism Cont.

 Examples: – Germanic peoples (Germany/Austria) share common heritage and goals – Russia was regarded as the protector of Slavic peoples

Militarism  Long term military buildup  European countries wanted to be stronger than each other  Germany had become the strongest in mainland Europe

Militarism Cont.

 Results – France, Italy, Japan, and the United States started to develop more advanced weapons

Alliances  Support other countries if they are attacked

Alliances Cont.

 Examples: – Triple Alliance: Central Powers • Turkey, Austria-Hungary, Germany, Italy (TOE/TAG) – Triple Entente: Allies • France, Russia, Great Britain (FRUG)

The Spark That Started The War  June 28, 1914 Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand assassinated in Sarajevo, Serbia – Gavrilo Princip was the assassin and was a member of the Black Hand – How did nationalism, imperialism and militarism both work to cause this?

War is Declared  Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia July 28, 1914  Russia had to support Serbia  Germany had to support Aus-Hun.

Alliances Tear Europe Apart  Ger. declared war on Russia (France’s Ally)  G.B. came to help Fr. after neutral Belgium was invaded

Alliances Tear Europe Apart Cont.

 By the end of the summer of 1914 the whole continent of Europe was engulfed in war.

PI I.O.1

1. Why might the Balkans be called “The Powder Keg of Europe?” 2. Choose one European country and explain how Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism and Nationalism affected that country and it’s entry into World War I in 1914. (must have spoke and wheel)

What would you do?

 Your nation is one of the oldest, wealthiest and most populous in the world. Your Science and tech. industries are the best in the world. But you are surrounded by weaker countries that build up their navies to threaten your colonies and steal your resources. They also want to take some of your territory. You fear they are growing stronger at your expense and eventually they might try to take over your homeland. You might lose your home and cultural heritage forever. What will you do? Why?