To What Extent did Imperialism cause WWI?

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Elias Survo 12H

To what extent did imperialism cause WWI?

Imperialism is when a country increases their power and wealth through means of obtaining additional territories outside of their established border. Imperialism was a factor to an extent leading up to World War I. However, imperialism was not the leading cause of World War I and was an important factor, however, not the main cause.

Imperialism is not one of the most important causes of World War One. Other major factors such as the alliance system played a bigger role in bringing about World War One. For example, the creation of the Triple Alliance between Italy, Austria-Hungary and Germany in 1882 led to Russia being excluded and eventually joining a ‘dual entente’ with France whom later joined up with Britain to form the Triple Entente in 1907. The Triple Alliance had several binding treaties between them ensuring financial, political and militaristic support. The Triple Entente, however, was not a binding alliance but more a friendship with extremely good relations. When Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia and Russia mobilised, Austria counted on Germany; its only ally to support them in an event of a war and Germany only did so as it did not want to lose its only ally. Italy had left behind Austria-Hungary and Germany in the Triple Alliance that potentially shows the weakness within the alliance system.

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Imperialism did have some impact on the causes of WWI. One example of this would be the Second Moroccan Crisis of 1911. France had sent in troops to Morocco in order to help the Sultans government, however, Germany saw this as a threat to Moroccan independence and sent in a naval boat; the Panther to Agadir. Germany then demanded compensation from France in the form of the entire French Congo. However, Britain stood up and Germany backed down, only receiving small strips of the Congo. Germany was humiliated publicly and diplomatically.  This was important as it showed the strength of ...

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