Learn: Causes of World War I

Welcome!Today we'll be learning about the causes of World War I, one of the most important topics in Edexcel 1HI0 GCSE History. Let's explore the key factors that led to this major conflict.

What was World War I?World War I, also known as the Great War, lasted from 1914 to 1918. It involved many countries, including Britain, Germany, France, and the USA, and was one of the deadliest conflicts in history. Understanding the causes of the war helps us learn how international relations can lead to large-scale conflicts.

MilitarismMilitarism is the belief that a country should maintain a strong military and be prepared to use it aggressively to defend or promote national interests. Before World War I, European nations were competing to build the largest armies and navies, which increased tensions and fear of conflict.

AlliancesAlliances are agreements between countries to support each other, especially in case of war. Before World War I, major powers formed alliances like the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the Triple Entente (Britain, France, Russia). These alliances meant that if one country was attacked, others were drawn into the conflict.

ImperialismImperialism is when countries expand their power by conquering and ruling other territories. Before World War I, European powers competed for colonies, especially in Africa and Asia. This rivalry increased tensions and made countries more suspicious of each other.

NationalismNationalism is extreme pride in one's country and belief in its superiority. This led to rivalries between nations, especially in the Balkans, where ethnic groups wanted independence from larger empires like Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman Empire.

Assassination of Archduke Franz FerdinandThe immediate cause of World War I was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, on 28 June 1914. He was killed by Gavrilo Princip, a Bosnian Serb nationalist. This event triggered a chain of alliances and declarations of war.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the main causes of World War I: militarism, alliances, imperialism, nationalism, and the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.