Causes of World War I
- Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne by Gavrilo Princip
- Austria-Hungary’s reaction to the death of their heir, declared war on Serbia
- One thing led to another, many different countries became allies with each side
- Mutual defense alliances, tangle of alliances
- Imperialism – countries increased their power and wealth as they brought additional territories under their control
- Militarism – increase in military buildup and establishment profoundly influenced public policy and motivated the countries involved in warfare
- Nationalism – led directly to the war, the nationalism of various countries throughout Europe contributed to not only the beginning but the extension of the war, each country attempted to prove their dominance and power