Causes and Background of World War I

Vocabulary flashcards covering the economic rivalries, colonial competition, and pre-1914 militarization leading to the outbreak of World War I based on lecture notes.

World War I

A global conflict spanning from $1914$ to $1918$ that resulted in catastrophic outcomes, triggered by imperial competition among the great European powers over the redistribution of colonies.

Old Capitalist Group

The established European economic and colonial powers, represented primarily by France and England, that held vast colonial empires before the war.

New Capitalist Group

The emerging capitalist bloc formed by Germany and Italy, which was confined to small colonial holdings and demanded a redivision of global territories.

Economic Competition (WWI Indirect Cause)

A primary indirect cause of World War I arising from the clash between older and newer Western European capitalist powers over global colonial markets and spheres of influence.

Arms Race Policy

The military expansion policy adopted by European nations leading up to $1914$, characterized by massive financial investments, military-scientific research, naval build-up, and widespread conscription.

Germany's Pre-WWI Militarization

The emergence of Germany as an industrial and military powerhouse through scientific research, naval and military modernization, and large-scale troop conscription reaching approximately $505{,}000$ soldiers.