7.1_Causes_of_WWI

The Great War

Overview

• Often referred to as "The War to End All Wars."

Causes of World War I

Key Factors

• Militarism: Belief that national power is based on military strength; increased arms race due to industrialization.

  • Large, advanced armies developed.

  • Difficulty settling disputes peacefully.

• Alliances: Nations formed alliances to avoid fighting alone.

  • Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy.

  • Triple Entente: England, France, Russia.

  • Alliances created tension instead of security.

• Imperialism: Competition for colonial expansion.

  • Austria-Hungary's interest in Bosnia angered Serbia.

• Nationalism: Strong patriotic feelings and desires for revenge.

  • The "Hymn of Hate" exemplified German nationalism against England.

Nationalism's Role

• Created pride but also division.

• Balkan region was tense, with nations breaking from the Ottoman Empire to form new identities (e.g., Yugoslavia).

• Austria-Hungary opposed Slavic nationalism.

Prelude to War

Major Events Leading Up to WWI

• Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand: June 28, 1914.

  • Conducted by Gavrilo Princip, part of a pro-Serbian plot.

• Ultimatum from Austria-Hungary to Serbia: July 23, 1914.

  • Serbia's failure to comply led to war declaration on July 28, 1914.

The War Begins

Escalation of Conflict

• Russia supported Serbia, declaring war on Germany and Austria-Hungary.

• Germany supported Austria-Hungary, declaring war on Russia.

• France pledged support for Russia, leading Germany to declare war on France.

• Germany invaded Belgium, which prompted Great Britain to declare war on Germany.

The Schlieffen Plan

• Objective: Quickly defeat France before turning to Russia.

• Included an encircling movement through Belgium.

• Underestimated British mobilization speed.

Two Fronts of War

• WWI was characterized by fighting on both the Western and Eastern Fronts.

• Battle of the Marne: Sept 6-10, 1914.

  • Key strategic victory for Allies, stopping German advance on Paris.

Alliances

Major Powers

• Triple Entente:

  • Great Britain, France, Russia

• Triple Alliance:

  • Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy

Global Nature of the War

Worldwide Involvement

• Countries outside Europe became involved.

• Japan entered war against Germany, targeting colonies in Asia.

• The United States joined in 1917 supporting Allies.

• Contribution of troops from colonies (e.g., India, Canada, Australia).

Closure

• Review the vocabulary and geography of WWI.

• Practice map-based learning.

• Reflect on MAIN causes of the war.