1.1 Nationalism
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, nationalism had become a potent force in Europe. This ideology emphasized the interests of a particular nation, often tied to ethnic or cultural identity, and fostered intense loyalty and pride. However, nationalism also encouraged rivalries and ethnic tensions, especially in multi-ethnic empires such as Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman Empire.
In the Balkans, nationalist movements sought independence from these empires, stirring instability. Serbian nationalism, in particular, aimed to unite Slavic peoples under one nation, threatening Austria-Hungary’s control of its southern provinces. This regional tension would become a flashpoint for the wider conflict.
1.2 Imperialism
Europe’s major powers competed fiercely for overseas colonies and resources during the so-called "Scramble for Africa" and elsewhere. This imperial competition generated distrust and rivalry. Germany, a relatively late entrant to colonial expansion, sought to assert itself alongside older empires like Britain and France, heightening tensions.
Conflicts such as the Moroccan Crises (1905 and 1911), where Germany challenged French control over Morocco, exacerbated international hostilities and damaged diplomatic relations between powers.
1.3 Militarism
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw an unprecedented arms race in Europe. Advances in technology made weapons deadlier, and the belief that military power was essential to national security took hold. Germany and Britain engaged in a naval arms race, each expanding their fleets in preparation for potential conflict.
This militarism was accompanied by detailed war plans, such as Germany’s Schlieffen Plan, which aimed to quickly defeat France before turning east to fight Russia. The readiness and eagerness of military establishments increased the likelihood that any conflict would escalate rapidly.
1.4 Alliance Systems
Europe was divided into two major alliance blocs by the early 20th century. The Triple Alliance linked Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, while the Triple Entente connected France, Russia, and Great Britain. These alliances were originally defensive but created a fragile balance of power.
Any localized conflict risked drawing in allied nations, escalating a small dispute into a full-scale war. The alliance systems meant that the continent was tightly interlocked, making it difficult to isolate conflicts. shutdown123