Alliances in Europe
Germany felt as if it was surrounded by enemies and desperately needed to assemble allies to defend itself. Thus, in 1882, the Triple Alliance was created that bonded Germany to Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman Empire. Out of fear of a potential war, Great Britain created the Triple Entente with France and Russia to help dispel it.
The Rivalries Germany ------> France- They fought over the Alsace territory, which would make an alliance between the two impossible. Austria ------> Russia- The two had many disputes over the Balkans, further explained in the July Crisis of 1914. Germany ------> Britain- The two had a naval arms race and a struggle over economic powers. |
Ironically, the alliances created to prevent a war did not actually protect Europe in the end; it led to diplomatic disasters which helped cause WWI.
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Militarism in Europe
Since Germany's unification, their government frequently saw war as a means of foreign policy. Look at Otto von Bismarck and Realpolitik. Even after his resignation, Germany still followed his "Blood and Iron" speeches. From 1890 to 1913, Germany had increased its military spending up to 150%, more than any other European power, including Britain, who only reached 117%. France and Russia combined only totaled 111%, so Germany capitalized on their weaknesses. Germany was accepted as the biggest and the best military in the world.
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Imperialism in Europe
Under Kaiser Wilhelm II's rule, he wanted Germany to finally have its "place in the sun" by making itself a colonial power in the world, rivaling Britain (and France as well). The fight over colonial territories led to increased tension between the two rising global powers. Then, as they gained colonies, the European powers committed them to assist their "mother" countries in case of a war.
The Arms Race Caused by Imperialism
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Nationalism in Europe: The Pride in One's Country
Germany:Kaiser Wilhelm II believed in Weltpolitik, which justified Germany's desire to become a world power like they believe they deserve. Of course, this concerns other European powers because they do not want to share the "wealth of power" with other nations.
France:France wanted revenge on Germany. Revenge for their humiliating defeat in the Franco-Prussian war. They lost the Alsace territory, and worse, the Germans celebrated by crowning Wilhelm I in the Palace of Versailles.
Britain:The British public supported imperialism and expansion. At this point, Britain controlled about 20% of the world and did not want to give that up. They were concerned that Germany would take control away from them.
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This led to an increased SUSPICION and HATRED of the other nations. All the nations involved felt if a war were to escalate, it would be over in no time and they would win regardless. "THE PEOPLE OF EUROPE LEAPT WILLINGLY INTO WAR." This fueled both MILITARISM and IMPERIALISM on both sides!