Extracts from this document...

Introduction

Robert Struk How imperialism, nationalism and militarism contributed to the outbreak of World War One The main causes of World War I were nationalism that spread throughout Europe in the 19th and into the 20th century, the economic and political rivalry among other nations, and the establishment in Europe after 1871 of large armaments and of two hostile military alliances. A factor, which contributed to the increase in rivalry in Europe, was imperialism. European nations ruled smaller countries, which were called colonies. Imperialism is the tendency of rich and powerful nations to seek to extend their rule by invading or annexing territory controlled by another country. Collecting and gathering colonies became known as imperialism. Great Britain, Germany and France needed foreign markets after the increase in manufacturing caused by the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution took place in Great Britain at the end of the 18th century, then in France in the early 19th century, and then later in Germany after 1870, which caused a great increase in the manufactures of each country and a need for foreign markets. ...read more.

Middle

The building of the Trans-Siberian railway was part of Russia's expansion into Asia. France had always been the dominant power in Europe. In 1870, France was defeated by Germany. From 1871 onwards, France's greatest ambition was to recover Alsace and Lorraine from Germany and also wanted to prevent another defeat by Germany. In 1870 Britain was the most industrially advanced country in Europe and possessed the largest overseas empire and the largest navy in the world. Britain was able to maintain a strong financial position in the world because of her capital and wealth from her own and overseas enterprises. As the powers dominated each other in Europe, their rivalries can be regarded as one of the causes of the First World War. Militarism was another cause of the war and it was similar to the arms race today. Militarism is the build up of military resources with the aim of using military action to achieve national goals. ...read more.

Conclusion

It caused Austria to threaten the Serbs, who were supported by Russia. Germany supporting Austria, declared war on Russia. France and Britain then joined in on Russia's side. Italy began as an ally of Germany but changed sides in 1915. A number of other smaller countries were also involved. The build up of armies and naval ships made the countries ready for war. People's patriotism and nationalism would not allow them to be dominated or threatened by another imperial country. Troops went off to fight in high spirits. Those who were not killed returned in a different mood. The number of casualties of the First World War was horrific. World War one resulted from the division of Europe into a system of alliances. They intended to build up strength for defence against the rising power of Germany. There was so much competition and rivalry that it brought tension to the political situation in Europe. The rising nationalism, the quickening pace of industrialisation and the build up of military forces were all factors, which contributed to the outbreak of World War 1. ...read more.

This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our AS and A Level International History, 1945-1991 section.