Imperalism

Prior to WW1 who was the world’s dominant imperial power?

Britain

Who were some of British colonial possessions in the late 1800s?

Canada, Australia, New Zealand, south Africa

Why was Britain’s power reinforced?

Because of her powerful navy, the world’s largest, and a fleet of mercantile (commercial) vessels. 

What were some of France’s imperial holdings?

Indochina, some Pacific islands and several colonies in west and north-west Africa. 

What were some of Germany’s imperial holdings?

Shandong (a province of China), New Guinea, Samoa and other Pacific islands, and several colonies in central and south-west Africa

What was the Eastern question?

the issue of what would happen in eastern Europe as the Ottomans withdrew – was an important talking point of the late 19th century.

What did the pre-war period result in?

It saw European powers scramble to acquire the new colonial possessions. Much of this occurred in Africa, where Britain, France and Germany all vied for land and control. 

What did this scramble for empire lead to?

It fuelled rivalry and led to several diplomatic incidents, such as two Moroccan crises that were largely precipitated by the German Kaiser

What did the Decline of the Ottoman Empire lead to?

It attracted the attention of European powers, who sought territory, influence or access in the Balkans and Eastern Europe.