Imperialism/ WW1

Colonialism

A system in which one country takes control of the political and economic affairs of another nation and imposes policies to control the population.

Scramble for Africa

The period from 1884 to 1960 when European powers rapidly colonized Africa, claiming almost the entire continent except Liberia and Ethiopia.

Industrial Revolution

An era that provided European countries with advantages over African nations including financial resources and new advancements in medicine and technology.

Berlin Conference (1884-1885)

A meeting where representatives from 14 countries established guidelines for the colonization of Africa, with no African countries present.

Militarism

The glorification of military power and values in society, leading to an arms race among European nations.

Alliances

Complex series of agreements that divided Europe into two sides: the Triple Alliance and the Triple Entente.

Nationalism

An intense form of patriotism that emphasizes national identity and often leads to competition and conflict with other nations.

Imperialism

The competition among European powers to acquire colonies and spheres of influence, leading to rivalries and tensions.

Total War

A war that places demands on nearly every aspect of society, including the home front, often requiring the mobilization of all available resources.

Trench Warfare

A type of combat where soldiers fight from deep trenches, leading to a stalemate with little territorial gain.

Armistice

An agreement to cease hostilities, notably signed on November 11, 1918, to end World War I.

Treaty of Versailles

A peace treaty signed in 1919 that blamed Germany for World War I and imposed heavy reparations.

League of Nations

An international peacekeeping organization established after WW1, aimed at preventing future conflicts, though the U.S. did not officially join.

Blank Check Agreement

An agreement in which Germany gave Austria-Hungary unconditional support in its punishment of Serbia after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.

Battle of Somme

One of the deadliest battles in history that took place from July 1 to November 18, 1916, resulting in over 1 million casualties.

Zimmerman Telegram

A secret message from Germany to Mexico in 1917 proposing an alliance against the United States.