20 th Century History BBS

Underlying Causes of World War I  The Causes of Most Wars Extreme Nationalism: Strong pride in one’s country Imperialism: When a strong nation attempts to expand its territory by military conquest, political or economic domination, or colonization Militarism: Policy of building up strong armed forces to prepare for war

Underlying Causes of World War I  Alliances Created a “False Sense of Security” Triple Entent ○ Great Britain ○ France ○ Russia Italy would later join after severing ties with Germany. The United States joined this alliance in 1917 Triple Alliance ○ Austria-Hungary ○ Germany Later became “The Central Powers” including Turkey and Bulgaria

Causes of World War I  Unrest in the Balkans Throughout the 19th and early 20th century the Ottoman Empire had lost land in the Balkans to the peoples who lived there. Many countries were also interested in extending their influence in the region. Austrian and Russian relations were poor over their rivalry in the Balkans. Russia encouraged Slav nationalism while Austria worried that this nationalism could undermine its empire. Russia supported Serbia itself as Serbia’s protector.

Causes of World War I: Balkans

Causes of World War I  Assassination On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated by Gavrillo Princip, a Bosnian-Serb nationalist, while on a good will trip to Sarajevo, Bosnia. This would ignite World War I. Princip was held until his death at Terezin in what is now the Czech-Republic.

Causes of World War I  Unfolding of the Alliances Austria declared war on Serbia Russia supported Serbia because it had vast ethnic ties Germany sided with Austria and declared war on Russia France was obligated to help Russia and Great Britain to help France By August 5, 1914, Europe was engaged in war