CAUSES OF WWI IN EUROPE

Militarism The building up of armed forces to prepare for war. As relationships between European countries became strained they began to build up arsenals Germany built up the most powerful army in Europe.

Alliances To try to keep power balanced in Europe many countries formed alliances. Each country pledged to support the other countries in the case of an attack Triple Alliance - Austria-Hungary, Germany, and Italy Triple Entente - Britain, France, and Russia

Imperialism You better know what this term means France, Britain, Germany and Russia competed for lands in Africa and Asia. This competition caused tension between European powers. It also caused tension with colonies looking to become independent

Nationalism Love for one’s country –Many Europeans believed their race /culture was superior. Led to many German countries to join together Also led to the split of many countries. –Ex: Slavic trying to break away from Austria-Hungary. Serbia and Russia supported the creation of a Slavic state.

Death of the Archduke Austria-Hungary annexed Bosnia and Herzegovina.(Slavic) Franz Ferdinand (heir to the throne of Aus-Hun) goes to capital. Gavrillo Princip- Serbian nationalist - walk shoots Ferdinand and wife in their car during a parade.account of deathaccount of death

Alliances fall Causes video After assignation Austria Hungary declares war and shells Serbia Russia supports Serbia - declares war on A-H A-H,Germany declares war on Russia. Britain and France declare war on Germany Central Powers- Germany, A-H, Ottoman Empire Allied Powers- Britain, France, Russia, Italy(1915). 30 Countries will eventually be involved in WWI