The Long-Term Causes Of World War I

The long-term causes of World War I were always an extensively discussed issue among the historians and researchers around the world. World War I, or the Great War, was a global war centered in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918. It was the first worldwide modern warfare, which involved the use of new technologies such as machine guns, poison gas, and advanced artilleries. The modern weapons extended the war into one of the longest and bloodiest war in history. Over 8.5 million soldiers died, and another 21 million were wounded. Also, countless civilians were affected by the Great War. Their homes were destroyed, towns and lands were destructed, diseases were wide spread, and the people around the world were

Militarism is the policy of glorifying military power and keeping an army prepared for war. The military defeats before World War I such as Russia’ defeat by Japan (Russo-Japanese War), France’s defeat by Germany (Franco Prussian War) and even costly victories such as the Boer War increased the calls for improvement of military. People wanted stronger military and arms. A powerful military, at that time, means manifestation for nations and imperial strength. It could protect homeland, deter threats and guarantee trade routes and interest. By 1914, all the Great powers except Great Britain had a large standing army. For Britain, they grew a powerful

The idea was first come out in the 18th century, when it is the belief of an individual attaching to one’s culture or nation. Developed to the 20th century, nationalism became the belief when people are so proud of their nation that they believe they are better than other countries. By the time before the Great War, the newspapers and stories were full of patriotic ideas and national rhetoric. People had a sturdy belief in the economic, military and cultural superiority of their nation. It was also reflected on the culture of European nations. Theatre, music and literature created in that period of time before the Great War performed the beliefs of favoring one’s own country and against others. German culture was promoted and celebrated, and they relied on nationalism to maintain and strengthen their country. Britain published fictions about foreign intrigue, espionage and future wars. The stories often featured racist stereotyping and innuendo against foreign countries. Before war, the idea of celebrating for one’s nation and against another was growing