History Test 2/25/25 - Causes of World War 1

Militarism

Glorifying military power and values in society; the belief that a nation’s power is primarily based on its ability to wage war.

Arms Race

A competition between nations to build up their military forces; specifically between Germany and Great Britain for dreadnought battleships.

Schlieffen Plan

German military strategy to defeat France by invading through neutral Belgium.

Triple Alliance

A military alliance between Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Italy.

Triple Entente

An alliance formed by Great Britain, France, Russia, and initially including the United States during World War I.

Nationalism

An intense form of patriotism that elevates one’s national identity while diminishing others; can lead to increased military fervor.

Propaganda

The spreading of ideas to promote a cause or damage an opposing cause.

Imperialism

A policy of extending a country’s power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means.

Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand

The murder of the Austro-Hungarian heir by Gavrilo Princip, a Serbian nationalist, which triggered World War I.

Black Check Agreement

Germany's unconditional support to Austria-Hungary against Serbia following the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, contributing to the outbreak of World War I.