Long-term causes of World War 1 - History

Nationalism

Pride and devotion to one’s country, where citizens are proud of their country’s achievements and prepared to go to war and fight for it.

Which country was the first to become industrialised in the 19th century, gaining wealth through manufacturing?

Great Britain

Which country began catching up to Britain by producing iron, steel, coal and cars, resulting in Britain losing its economic lead in Europe by the 20th century?

Germany.

Who were the main rival countries building up tension and powerful navies to maintain large empires?

Britain and Germany

What did Germany produce that made the country surpass Britain industrially?

Iron, steel, coal and cars.

What was the competitive climate in Europe by the end of the 19th century regarding nationalism?

European countries were competing to be the richest, most powerful, and strongest nation.

Why did Britain maintain the world’s strongest navy?

To protect its coastline, large overseas empire, and global trade routes.

What was the name of the formidable new warship created by Britain that featured an armored deck and fast-firing, heavy guns?

A Dreadnought.

How did Germany respond to the British Dreadnought, and what was this period called?

Germany tried to build even more superior warships, marking the beginning of the naval race.

How did European nations grow richer and strengthen their power over one another in the late 19th century?

By colonising many parts of the world and taking over more and more land (competing over who had the most colonies).

Which two nations had huge overseas empires, making the Germany Kaiser envious and desirous of a bigger empire for Germany?

Britain and France.