The cause of world war one was “M A I N”. M stands for militarism meaning having a army that is ready to attack at any given movement, this also includes weaponry, like guns bombs and bullets. A.J.P Taylor said," All the great powers had carefully detailed plans for mobilisation." A stands for alliances countries have a contract saying that they have to help out each other when facing a conflict. A.J.P Taylor said," Even though the Germans accepted the treaty they didn't take it seriously." I stands for imperialism meaning countries wanted to get more land so they can have more resources and become wealthy and also have a high status. N stands for nationalism meaning you have a deep belief that your country is better than everyone else's. George