Understanding World War I: Causes and Characteristics

Causes of World War I

Political & Territorial Causes

France and Germany endured the dispute over Alsace-Lorraine, fueled by French nationalist revindications against Germanization attempts. Additionally, Poland, divided between Austria, Prussia, and Russia, saw Polish nationalists demanding independence. The conflicting interests of the Russian and Austro-Hungarian empires also played a significant role. Furthermore, the demarcation of borders for Albania and Greece raised the question of strait control. Finally, colonial rivalries, driven by Germany's desire for a new division of the world, clashed with the British Empire.

Economic Factors

International capital movements led to confrontations between countries, influencing political decisions. This resulted in fierce competition and later, colonial tariff wars. National markets became increasingly closed due to government protectionist policies.

Psychological & Historical Factors

These played an important role. Many aspects were integrated into everyday life, including nationalism, militarism, and war psychosis itself. The nationalism inherent in the rise of the ruling class in the 19th century had finally become a form of exclusionary and xenophobic chauvinism. Militarism, a doctrine associated with more extreme forms of nationalism, also gained significant traction. Finally, the pervasive war psychosis itself served as a strong stimulus, activating the latent conflict.

Key Features of World War I

• Long Duration: From August 1914 to November 1918, involving countries across five continents.
• New Weaponry: Introduction of new weapons and upgrades to existing ones, making them more deadly. Innovations included the submarine, tank, aircraft, zeppelin, and hand grenades.
• Massive Recruitment: Unprecedented recruitment of soldiers, leading to the massive incorporation of women into the workforce in both manufacturing and agriculture.
• Technological & Strategic Advances: Application of scientific and industrial advances in military strategy, such as railways, telephone, telegraph, and radio.
• Propaganda: Extensive use of the press and radio as means of propaganda.