The CAUSES of World War I, Explained [AP World History Review—Unit 7 Topic 2]

Which statement best describes the concept of militarism as a cause of World War I?

• A belief that states should avoid military build-ups to prevent conflict.

• The development of international trade agreements to secure resources.

• The belief that states should build strong militaries and employ them aggressively to protect their own interests.

• A policy of forming defensive alliances to maintain peace.

What was a significant consequence of the elaborate military mobilization plans developed by European states before World War I?

• It ensured that conflicts would remain localized and easily contained.

• It made it very difficult to halt mobilization once it had begun, increasing the likelihood of war.

• It led to a decrease in military spending as nations relied on their allies.

• It fostered a sense of mutual trust and cooperation among nations.

How did imperialism contribute to the rising tensions among European powers leading up to World War I?

• It encouraged nations to share resources and collaborate on global projects.

• It led to increased competition and conflict over acquiring and maintaining colonial territories.

• It promoted cultural exchange and understanding between different empires.

• It resulted in a decrease in military spending as resources were diverted to colonial administration.

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by a Serbian nationalist is considered the immediate trigger for World War I. How did nationalism contribute to the escalation of this event into a global conflict?

• It led to a diplomatic resolution where all parties agreed to avoid war.

• It caused nations to prioritize compromise and peaceful negotiations.

• It ensured that the assassination was viewed as an unprovoked act demanding retaliation, and the alliance system drew other nations into the conflict.

• It fostered a sense of shared identity that transcended national borders, preventing widespread conflict.