Aim: Identify the political and military forces at work in Europe in the late 1800’s

The Rise of Nationalism leads to Tension 20th Century, the nations of Europe had been at peace Darker forces at work Europe witnessed developments that would propel the continent into war One development was growth of nationalism Caused intense competition among nations with each seek to overpower Fierce rivalry had developed among Europe’s powers Nations were Germany, Austria-Hungary, Great Britain, Russia, Italy, & France Increasing rivalry stemmed from competition for materials & territorial disputes 2

Imperialism & Militarism Another force that helped set stage for war was imperialism Nations of Europe competed for colonies Quest pushed European nations to brink of war Early 20th Century led to troubling development of the European arms race Nations of Europe believed that to be truly great, they needed to have a powerful military 1914: All great powers except Britain had powerful military's Policy of glorifying military powers and keeping an army prepared for war was known as Militarism Made citizens feel safe 3

Tangled Alliances 1870: Rivalries & mistrust led to powerful alliances Alliances designed to keep peace in Europe In reality, it pushed continent into war 1864-1871: Otto von Bismarck used war to unify Germany 1879: Bismarck began forming alliance between Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy Known as Triple Alliance 1890: Kaiser Wilhelm II forced Bismarck to resign Eager to show world how Germany had become mighty 1892 : Russia begins forms alliance with France and Britain Called the Triple Entente 4