World War 1 Alliances Causes

World War 1, also known as “The Great War,” began in 1914 and lasted until 1918 due to rising tensions in Europe towards the end of the 18th century and beginning of the 19th century. A sense of nationalism developed in Europe during this time for people sharing a common geography or culture. This sense of pride gave countries the motivation to imperialize other countries and force assimilation on them. At the same time, these imperializing countries were building up their armies to make conquering and battling other countries easier. Tensions increased even further, and the most powerful countries banded together in alliances. With this, promises of helping with fighting were made in case a war broke out. When the assassination of Archduke

The two major alliances in Europe were the Triple Alliance, composed of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, and the Triple Entente, composed of Britain, France, and Russia. Each country promised the other members of their respective alliance to assist with troops in the event of fighting.The political cartoon entitled “Chain of Friendship,” printed in the Brooklyn Eagle in July 1914, showcases the domino effect that alliances cause. In the picture, a person representing Austria hits a person representing Serbia. In retaliation, Russia hits Austria and Germany hits Russia for doing so. The chain continues backwards, showing how one conflict can begin to involve several countries when promises are made in alliances. This represents the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand, as when Austria retaliated on the Balkan area other countries got involved. In addition, The Century of Total War by Raymond Aron (Doubleday & Co. 1951) showcases the effects of alliances, as Aron states that “had created among England and France an alliance which claimed it was defensive in nature but was denounced by German propaganda as an attempt at the encirclement of Germany. The two armed camps alarmed each other, and each grew heavy with multiple incidents, which spread East.” Aron explains that while alliances can be made to protect countries, England and France’s alliance was made simply to reduce Germany’s power. When the two countries alarmed each other, multiple incidents occurred that spread to other countries, showcasing the idea that alliances can involve other countries to create large-scale conflicts. The chain effect that occurs due to alliances as well as the spreading of fighting to other countries because of war promises highlight the idea that alliances can lead to