World War I

Militarism

The development of armed forces and their use as a tool of diplomacy, leading to an arms race among nations.

Alliance Systems

Agreements between nations to support each other in case of war, exemplified by the Triple Alliance and Triple Entente during WWI.

Imperialism

The practice of acquiring new lands and territories by nations, contributing to tensions and rivalries.

Nationalism

Devotion to one's nation, often leading to the desire for independence or the creation of new nations, as seen in the Balkan Peninsula during WWI.

Arms Race

A competition between nations to rapidly expand their military capabilities, often fueled by militarism and fear of neighboring countries.

Triple Alliance

An alliance between Germany, Italy, and Austria-Hungary formed before WWI.

Triple Entente

An alliance between Britain, France, and Russia formed before WWI.

Unrestricted Submarine Warfare

A policy by Germany during WWI to sink any boat going to or coming from Britain, leading to the sinking of the Lusitania.

Zimmerman Note

A communication intercepted during WWI proposing a German-Mexican alliance against the US, influencing American entry into the war.

League of Nations

An international organization proposed by Wilson's Fourteen Points to enable nations to settle disputes peacefully, but faced opposition and limitations in the Treaty of Versailles.

The Shot that started the war

June 1914 - Archduke of Austria-Hungary, Franz Ferdinand (heir to throne) was shot in Serbian Capital Sarajevo. Assassin was a member of the Serbian nationalist group the Black Hand. Austria Hungary declared war on Serbia. Serbia had secret alliance with Russia. Germany declared war on Russia. Germany declared war on France. Britain declared war on Germany after Germany attacked Belgium. All the colonies of these countries also got involved.