WWI - M.A.I.N. Causes

Question 1

What were Alliances and how did they help start the war?

Answer 1

• Countries joining together to form teams
• Triple Entente: Russia, France, UK
• Triple Alliances: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy
• Created TENSION and gave people CONFIDENCE
• Made the war a “World” war, not just a war

Question 2

What was Imperialism and how did it help start the war?

Answer 2

• Countries wanting to create or extend an Empire
• ENCOURAGED leaders and people to invade other countries
• Persuaded people that war was a good idea
• Past success gave people CONFIDENCE

Question 3

What was Nationalism and how did it help start the war?

Answer 3

• Countries wanting independence (e.g. Balkans)

- People were persuaded that a war was the answer to getting INDEPENDENCE

Question 4

What was Militarism and how did it help start the war?

Answer 4

• Idea that war is good
• Countries’ build up of weapons and armed forces
• Pressure on other countries to do the same
• Created TENSION and gave people CONFIDENCE in their country’s success