WORLD WAR I

The world war that began in 1914 was a conflict between Europe’s great powers: Britain, France, Germany and Italy. This war was fueled by tensions between countries that wanted to expand their territories and control other nations, as well as the desire to develop naval power.

Increasing Militarism:

The 19th century saw the rise of a culture that promoted militarism, which encouraged countries to prepare for war and increased their military capabilities. In particular, Germany’s doubling of its standing army and Great Britain’s increasing of its navy pushed the European states into a period of rivalry and tension.

Bosnia and Herzegovina:

The region of Bosnia and Herzegovina was a territory of Austria-Hungary that had been annexed by the country in 1908. When Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip murdered Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo, it started the process to end the relationship between the two countries.

Russia:

During the late 19th century, the Russian Empire gained territory in Africa and Asia through colonial conquests. These colonies often led to dissatisfaction and resentment from native populations.

European Colonialism:

As the European continent grew, it became increasingly difficult for the empires to maintain their hold over new territories and colonies. As a result, the European powers started to build alliances. These agreements, called alliances, would ensure their support if they were forced to go to war.

Germany’s Sinking of the Lusitania:

The sinking of the Lusitania in May 1915 sparked a wave of American protest. Woodrow Wilson, then president of the United States, threatened to break off relations with Germany if it did not halt its submarine attacks on merchant marine ships in the Atlantic. The Germans soon backed down.