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

2. 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

3. 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

4. Tangled Alliances 1870: Rivalries & mistrust led to powerful alliances
Alliances designed to keep peace in Europe
In reality, it pushed continent into war
: 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