Conflict and tension, 1894-1918 Flashcards
What year did Germany become one of the most powerful states in Europe?
By 1914
Germany unified as a collection of smaller states in 1871.
What significant area did Germany gain after a war against France?
Alsace-Lorraine
This region was important for its industrial resources.
By what year had Germany outproduced Britain?
1904
Which countries formed the Triple Alliance with Germany?
- Austria-Hungary
- Italy
Austria-Hungary joined in 1872 and Italy in 1882.
What two countries became allies, causing concern for Germany?
- France
- Russia
What was the main reason for the tensions among the major powers of Europe?
The creation of powerful mutual alliances
What ethnic groups in Austria-Hungary sought independence?
- Czechs
- Serbs
Which country supported Serbia, posing a threat to Austria-Hungary?
Russia
Why did Italy join the Triple Alliance?
To build an empire of its own
What year did France and Russia form a secret alliance?
1892
What was France’s goal regarding Alsace-Lorraine?
To regain it from Germany
What type of economy was Russia characterized by?
Agrarian
What was the purpose of French loans to Russia?
To help build up its industry
What ethnic group did Russia and Serbia belong to?
Slavs
What year did Britain, France, and Russia form the Triple Entente?
1907
What was the primary threat that Britain perceived by 1907?
Germany
What agreements did Britain sign with France and Russia?
- Agreement with France in 1904
- Agreement with Russia in 1907
What crises increased tensions in Europe?
The Moroccan and Bosnian crises
What event in 1905 increased tensions between Germany and France?
Kaiser Wilhelm’s speech supporting Moroccan independence
This speech angered France, who was planning to take control of Morocco.
What was the outcome of the conference intended to settle the Moroccan dispute?
It caused more tension between Germany, France, and Britain
Germany felt ignored and worried about the support between France and Britain.
Which two rival empires influenced the Balkans?
Austria-Hungary and Russia
The Balkans was unstable as countries were becoming independent.
What action did Austria take in 1908 that angered Serbia and Russia?
Austria took control of Bosnia
This led to Germany supporting Austria, forcing Russia and Serbia to back down.
What notable action did Germany take in response to France’s movements in Morocco in 1911?
Germany sent a gunboat to the port of Agadir
This was a direct response to France moving to take over Morocco.
What agreement did Britain and France reach in response to the 1911 Moroccan crisis?
They agreed to use their navies to contain the German navy
This crisis contributed to the formation of the Triple Entente.