AP Euro: Unit 15.1-15

M.A.I.N. Causes of WWI

Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, Nationalism - the four main causes of World War I.

Militarism

The belief or desire of a government or people that a country should maintain a strong military capability and be prepared to use it aggressively.

Alliances

A union or association formed for mutual benefit, especially between countries, that can potentially lead to larger conflicts.

Imperialism

A policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomatic, military, or economic means.

Nationalism

Feelings of pride in one's nation, its history, and its people, often leading to the desire for independence.

The Spark that Lit the Powder Keg

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in Bosnia, which ignited the tensions leading to WWI.

Gavrilo Princip

The Serbian nationalist who assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand, triggering the events leading to World War I.

Schlieffen Plan

Germany's military strategy to quickly defeat France by invading Belgium before turning to fight Russia during WWI.

Triple Alliance

A military alliance between Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy before the outbreak of World War I.

Triple Entente

An alliance between France, Russia, and Great Britain prior to World War I.