1. Causes of World War I Unit 7

2. WWI Video

3. Causes of World War I There were 4 MAIN causes of World War I M ilitarism A lliances I mperialism N ationalism

4. Militarism Definition: policy of glorifying military power and keeping an army prepared for war Beginning 20 th Century: – Rise of DANGEROUS arms race – European nations believed that in order to be great they needed a powerful military – By 1914 ALL Great Powers had large standing armies (except Great Britain) – Also believed that troops had to be very mobile (ready to move and fight at any time) so generals developed mobilization plans

5. Militarism Having a large and standing army made citizens feel VERY PATRIOTIC BUT it also frightened some

6. Alliances Countries formed friendships and made agreements with one another If one was attacked all the others would step in to help Allies – Great Britain, Russia, France, Italy Central – Germany, Austria-Hungary, Ottoman Empire

7. Imperialism Definition: competition for colonies (everyone wants to be the BEST and MOST powerful) Beginning 20 th Century: – European nations had been competing for colonies in Africa and Asia – Pushed nations to war – As the competition continued their mistrust and rivalry of one another strengthened

8. Nationalism Definition: Deep devotion to one’s nation Can be a unifying force within a country Can also cause competition among other nations – All want to be the most powerful Beginning 20 th century – All of Europe’s GREAT powers were rivals – Germany, Austria-Hungary, Great Britain, Russia, Italy, and France