Causes of World War I

A single action, the assassination of the archduke, started World War I. The conflict had many underlying causes, however.

Underlying Causes Militarism Alliances Imperialism Nationalism

Militarism The policy of making military power a primary goal of a nation. In the decades before the war, the major powers built up their armies and navies.

Alliances Formal agreement between two or more nations to cooperate for specific purposes. In 1914, a tangled network of competing alliances bound European nations together. An attack on one nation forced its allies to come to its aid. Any small conflict could become a larger war.

Imperialism Extending rule or authority of an empire or nation over foreign countries, or of acquiring and holding colonies. Britain, France, Germany, and Italy competed for colonies in Africa and Asia. Germany had fewer colonies than Britain and France and felt it deserved more. - To provide it with resources - To buy its goods

Nationalism Strong feelings of pride, loyalty, and protectiveness toward one’s own country. Many Europeans embraced nationalism. They wanted to prove that their nations were the best.

Assassination of Archduke The Archduke was heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary. Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife were shot by a Serbian man. Serbia provided the guns, ammunition, and training that made the assassination possible. Austria-Hungary issued Serbia with various ultimatums after Ferdinand's assassination (no more anti-monarchist propaganda, a fast trial and sentencing for the assassins and a purge of its military), which weren't entirely met. On July 28, 1914, assured of German military support Austria declared war on Serbia.

Steps to War June 28, 1914 – Archduke Franz Ferdinand is assassinated. July 28, 1914 – Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia. July 30, 1914 – Russia (Serbia’s ally) mobilizes armed forces. August 1, 1914 – Germany (Austria-Hungary’s ally) declares war on Russia. August 3, 1914 – Germany declares war on France (Russia’s ally); prepares to invade Belgium. August 4, 1914 – Britain, having pledged to protect Belgium, declares war on Germany. August 6, 1914 – Austria-Hungary declares war on Russia. August 12, 1914 – France and Britain declare war on Austria-Hungary.