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How far was tension between the Great Powers likely to lead to war?

12.2 Key Approaches (WWI)

Analyzing the World Wars

 A Level/AS Level/O Level

History Notes

Your Burning Questions Answered!

How did the balance of power system contribute to the outbreak of WWI?

Assess the role of nationalism and imperialism in escalating tensions between the Great Powers.

To what extent were the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and German mobilization decisive factors in the outbreak of war?

Evaluate the significance of diplomatic failures in preventing the outbreak of WWI.

Discuss the extent to which the outbreak of war was a deliberate act of aggression by one or more of the Great Powers.

How far was tension between the Great Powers likely to lead to war?

Chapter 12: Analyzing the World Wars

12.2 Key Approaches (WWI)

1. The Rise of Nationalism:

⭐What is Nationalism? Nationalism is a powerful feeling of pride and loyalty to your nation. It can be a force for good, bringing people together for a common cause, but it can also be a dangerous force, leading to conflict and war.
⭐Nationalism in Europe: In the early 20th century, Europe was a hotbed of nationalism. Each country felt superior to its neighbors, believing it was destined for greatness. This rivalry made it difficult for countries to cooperate and solve problems peacefully.
⭐Examples:
⭐Germany: Germany felt they were a rising power, unjustly denied their rightful place in the world. They yearned for colonies and a larger sphere of influence.
⭐France: France sought to regain its position as a leading European power, especially after its defeat in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71.
⭐Austria-Hungary: The Austro-Hungarian Empire was a mix of different ethnicities, with many groups seeking independence. This fueled tensions within the empire and made it difficult to maintain control.

2. The System of Alliances:

⭐European Power Dynamics: At the start of the 20th century, European powers were entangled in a complex network of alliances. These alliances were meant to provide security, but they also had a dangerous side effect – they could easily drag nations into conflicts.
⭐The Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy formed an alliance in 1882. This alliance was meant to counter France and Russia.
⭐The Triple Entente: France, Russia, and Great Britain formed an alliance in response to the Triple Alliance. This alliance aimed to maintain a balance of power and prevent German dominance in Europe.
⭐The Domino Effect: The system of alliances meant that a conflict between two countries could quickly escalate into a larger war. For example, if Austria-Hungary attacked Serbia, Russia (Serbia's ally) would be obligated to defend them. Germany, allied with Austria-Hungary, would then be drawn into the conflict. This would then draw in France and Great Britain, leading to a massive European war.

3. Imperialism and Competition for Resources:

⭐The Scramble for Africa: European powers competed fiercely for colonies in Africa, leading to conflict and tension. This competition for resources and power fueled rivalries and mistrust.
⭐Economic Competition: European nations were also engaged in economic competition, especially for markets and raw materials. This competition contributed to the growing sense of resentment and anger between nations.
⭐The Arms Race: The competition between nations led to an arms race, where countries poured resources into building up their militaries. This created a climate of fear and suspicion, making war more likely.

4. A Climate of Militarism:

⭐Nationalistic Propaganda: The press and political leaders used nationalist rhetoric to stir up patriotic fervor and glorify war. They portrayed the enemy as a threat to national security and emphasized the need for military strength.
⭐Military Culture: Military service was seen as a duty and a sign of national pride. This created a climate where war was seen as a natural and acceptable solution to international disputes.
⭐The Growing Power of Militaries: European armies and navies became increasingly powerful and influential. Military leaders often held significant political power and promoted a more aggressive foreign policy.

5. The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand:

⭐The Trigger of War: On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, was assassinated in Sarajevo by a Serbian nationalist. This event was the immediate trigger for the outbreak of World War I.
⭐Austria-Hungary's Response: Austria-Hungary believed that Serbia was behind the assassination and issued an ultimatum demanding Serbia's full cooperation in the investigation. Serbia, while willing to compromise, did not meet all of Austria-Hungary's demands. This led to Austria-Hungary declaring war on Serbia on July 28, 1914.
⭐The Domino Effect: Due to the system of alliances, Austria-Hungary's declaration of war triggered a chain reaction. Germany, allied with Austria-Hungary, declared war on Russia (Serbia's ally). France, allied with Russia, declared war on Germany. Great Britain, concerned about the growing power of Germany, declared war on Germany, joining the war on the side of France and Russia.

Conclusion:

The tension between the Great Powers in the early 20th century was a complex mix of factors, including nationalism, rivalry, imperialism, and militarism. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand provided the spark that ignited the flames of war, quickly drawing the major European powers into a global conflict.

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