Causes of World War I

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What characterized Europe at the turn of the 20th century?

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Europe had been largely at peace for nearly 30 years, with efforts to outlaw war and achieve permanent peace.

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What was one major development that contributed to rising tensions in Europe?

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The growth of nationalism, which caused intense competition among nations.

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Which nations were considered the Great Powers of Europe by the turn of the 20th century?

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Germany, Austria-Hungary, Great Britain, Russia, Italy, and France.

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What were some sources of rivalry among European nations?

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Competition for materials and markets, and territorial disputes.

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What was the significance of Alsace-Lorraine in the context of Franco-German relations?

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France had not forgotten the loss of Alsace-Lorraine to Germany in the Franco-Prussian War.

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What role did imperialism play in the tensions leading to World War I?

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European nations competed fiercely for colonies, which deepened rivalry and mistrust.

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What was militarism, and how did it affect European nations?

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Militarism was the policy of glorifying military power and keeping an army prepared for war, which made citizens feel patriotic but also frightened some.

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What was the purpose of the military alliances formed among the Great Powers?

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They were designed to keep peace in Europe but ultimately contributed to the outbreak of war.

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Who was Otto von Bismarck, and what was his role in European alliances?

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Bismarck was the Chancellor of Germany who formed early military alliances to isolate France and maintain peace.

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What was the Dual Alliance?

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An alliance formed in 1879 between Germany and Austria-Hungary.