Origins of World War I Origins of World War I (The Great War)(The Great War)

Art Lewandowski Fostoria High School

Four Long Term Causes

MilitarismAlliances Imperialism Nationalism

Imperialism

Dominating countries politically and economically

Closely linked to industry– Need for raw materials and markets

Imperialism Cont.

Causes tensionExamples

– 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 otherGermany 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 SerbiaGermany 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.11. 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?