WWI was caused by an ANIMAL! Causes of WWI WWI was caused by an ANIMAL!

WWI was caused by an ANIMAL! Alliances N Nationalism I Imperialism M Militarism Assassination L Leaders

Alliances Alliance: agreement between nations to aid and protect one another, especially in the case of an attack. Due to tensions from imperialism, nationalism, and militarism, many countries chose to form alliances. Germany organized Triple Alliance with Austria-Hungary and Italy. France organized Triple Entente with Russia and Britain.

Nationalism Nationalism: pride in one’s country Germany won a part of France (Alsace-Lorraine) after the Franco-Prussian war. France wanted that part back to restore nationalism. This caused tension between Germany and France. Russians encouraged Serbs living in AH to rise up in a showing of national pride.

Imperialism Imperialism: powerful countries seeking control over weaker, smaller countries Powerful nations scrambled to take control over colonies in Africa (see note from Sept. 6), Asia, and the Pacific. Competing over the same regions led to international conflict.

Militarism Militarism: building up strong forces in preparation for war European nations began to build up their armies and navies. A huge conflict was rising between Germany and Britain, as each were adding ships to their naval fleets.

ssassination With tensions rising due to alliances, nationalism, imperialism, and militarism (the “MAIN” causes), all that was needed to set of a catastrophic event was a spark. June 28, 1914 Archduke Franz Ferdinand (heir to throne of Austria-Hungary) was touring Bosnia (under AH rule). Serbian terrorist group, “The Black Hand,” wanted Bosnia to break away from AH and join Serbia, and they were angered by the Archduke’s visit. During the tour, a member of the Black Hand, Gavrilo Princip, assassinated the Archduke and his wife.

Series of Events Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand AH accused Serbia of the attack, threatened war July 28: AH officially declared war on Serbia July 29: Russia (allies with Serbia) prepared for war against AH August 1: Germany requested Russia call off their attack, but didn’t get a response. So, Germany declared war August 3: Germany also declares war on France, Russia’s ally. August 4: Germany began to move through neutral Belgium, which Great Britain had promised to protect, so Great Britain declared war on Germany Austria-Hungary Serbia Russia Germany France Britain

Leaders Leaders played a heavy role in the fatal decisions that led to the Great War, as well as those during and after WWI.