Directions: For each of the following causes, briefly summarize in your own words what that cause was and how it led to
the outbreak of war.
1. Militarism - As the world entered the 20th century, an arms race had begun. By 1914, Germany had the
greatest increase in military. Great Britain and Germany both greatly increased their navies in this time
period. Further, in Germany and Russia particularly, the military began to have a greater influence on public
policy. This increase in militarism helped push the countries involved to war.
2. Alliances - Over time, countries throughout Europe made mutual defense agreements that would pull
them into battle. Thus, if one country was attacked, allied countries were bound to defend them. Before
World War 1, the following alliances existed:
Russia and Serbia!!!!!!Germany and Austria-Hungary
France and Russia!!!!!!Ottoman Empire & Bulgaria
Britain and France and Belgium !! Japan and Britain
When Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, Russia got involved to defend Serbia. Germany seeing
Russia mobilizing, declared war on Russia. France was then drawn in against Germany and Austria-
Hungary. Germany attacked France through Belgium pulling Britain into war. Then Japan entered the war.
Later, Italy and the United States would enter on the side of the allies.
3. Imperialism - Imperialism is when a country increases their power and wealth by bringing additional
territories under their control. Before World War 1, Africa and parts of Asia were points of contention
amongst the European countries. This was especially true because of the raw materials these areas
could provide. The increasing competition and desire for greater empires led to an increase in
confrontation that helped push the world into World War I.
M
A
What is militarism?
How did militarism lead to WWI?
What were alliances?
How did alliances lead to WWI?
i
Causes of World War I Name: ___________________________
What was imperialism?
How did imperialism lead to WWI?
