Causes of WW1 - created from Mind Map

Short Term Assassination of Franz Ferdinand Germany's 'Blank Cheque' Austria blamed Serbia - it's excuse for war was found. Serbia was a threat to Austria as the most powerful country in the Balkans. With Germany offering unconditional support for Austria (blank cheque), it encouraged Austria to act more outrageous than it would have done alone as they knew Germany would be there to back them up.

Long Term Nationalism Imperialism Alliances Militarism (Arms Race) The belief that your country is superior to all other counties with the belief you could 'take them on' if necessary. This leads nations to become assertive and aggressive. The desire to conquer colonies, especially in Africa. This brought the powers into conflict - Germany wanted an empire. France and Britain already had empires. Germany believed that they were 'entitled' and deserved an empire the size of Britain's. In 1882, Germany, Austria-Hungary and Italy formed the Triple Alliance. This alarmed, France, Britain and Russia. By 1907, they had all joined the Triple Entente. Europe was divided into two armed camps, to help each other if there was a war. It meant other countries felt inclined to protect their alliance. The attempt to build up a strong army and navy gave nations the means and will to make war. It started a competition and countries became threats.

Causes of WW1