Causes of World War 1 Flashcards
What was the Alliance system?
The alliance system was meant to act as a defence against war. Should a war between France and Germany happen, Germany could rely on the aid of the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary and Italy) and France could rely on the Triple Entente (Britain, France and Russia). This meant that a small issue turned into a massive war.
What was Balkan Nationalism?
Balkan Nationalism was made from people in the Balkans not wanting to be ruled by empires, but rather by themselves. This was supported by Russia who wanted a route to the Mediterranean and was opposed by Austria-Hungary and the Ottomans whose empire were collapsing.
What was the Arms Race?
This was different countries trying to outdevelop each other with weaponry so that if a war did break out, they would be in a better position. The main races were seen between France and Germany in the army and Britain and Germany in the navy.
What was Colonial Rivalry?
Germany had started getting colonies after France and Britain, putting it at an economic backfoot. This meant that Germany wanted these colonies and this created tension.
What was the Schlieffen Plan?
The Schlieffen plan was a plan for if a war broke out with France and Russia. Because Russia had sparse railways, it would mobilise slowly leaving Germany free to surprise attack France through Belgium and defeat them quickly before attacking Russia. This was hoping to avoid a two front war.
What was German Militarism?
This was the idea that german officers wanted to fight a major war sooner rather than later due to the growing power of Russia that could soon be difficult to defeat.
What was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand?
This was the assassination of the heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary by Serbian nationalists in Bosnia. This lead to Austria-Hungary declaring war on Serbia.
