What were the major causes of World War I?

World War I, also known as the Great War, was triggered by a combination of complex factors that had been brewing for decades. The major causes can be categorized into four main themes: imperialism, nationalism, militarism, and alliances.

Imperialism

Imperial competition among European powers for overseas territories and resources led to heightened tensions. Rivalries over colonies in Africa and Asia increased suspicions and fueled the arms race.

Nationalism

Nationalistic fervor was on the rise across Europe, leading to aspirations for independence and self-determination among different ethnic groups. This sense of national pride contributed to the escalating conflicts.

Militarism

The militaristic policies of European powers, characterized by large standing armies and the development of advanced weaponry, created a volatile environment where war seemed inevitable. Military build-up only served to intensify the hostility between nations.

Alliances

A system of intricate alliances between major powers divided Europe into two opposing camps. When one country was threatened, its allies were automatically drawn into the conflict, turning a local dispute into a global war.

In conclusion, the culmination of these factors resulted in the outbreak of World War I, a devastating global conflict that forever changed the course of history and had far-reaching consequences for the future of Europe.