Origins of World War I: Causes of the 1914 Conflict

The Road to War in Europe: 1914

The Berlin Conference of 1885 attempted to establish rules for the colonization of the African continent by European empires. However, the rise of powers such as the German Empire reopened conflicts between European nations. Morocco became a focal point of international attention, and the possibility of war was constantly present.

Rising Nationalism and European Tensions

European powers became increasingly nationalistic to defend their interests. The promotion of national identity and values caused a general climate of mistrust. Some European peoples held nationalist aspirations, while others defended their status as great traditional empires. Key factors included:

• The Balkans as the center of international tension.
• The German annexation of the French region of Alsace-Lorraine following the Franco-Prussian War.
• Strong rivalry between the British and German Empires over economic control and trade routes.

The Balkan Crisis and Imperial Ambitions

As the Ottoman Empire collapsed, the Austro-Hungarian Empire planned to gain power over the Balkans. However, Serbia and Russia also sought to increase their influence to control the Mediterranean Sea. The annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina by Austria-Hungary in 1908 increased tensions, resulting in the Balkan Wars (1912–1913). Serbia, allied with Russia, emerged as the victor. As Serbia grew stronger, Austria-Hungary sought support from Germany.

Alliances and the Arms Race

In 1882, the German Empire signed the Triple Alliance with Austria-Hungary and Italy. Fearing German military strength, France allied with Russia and improved relations with Britain, which had deteriorated due to colonial disputes. In 1907, these three powers signed a mutual aid pact, the Triple Entente. The mistrust between the great powers also caused an arms race as they prepared for war. The assassination of Franz Ferdinand in 1914 triggered the First World War, but the true causes of the conflict had been developing for decades.