The First World War was the product of a
series of complicated and far reaching event. The reasons for war were as
follows:
1)
The imperialism
of Western nations: -During 19th century, the industrial
nations of Europe stated for markets in Asia and underdeveloped African
continent. This provided market as well as raw materials to the European
nations. As the European nations understood the
financial importance of these regions, it started a race for colonization and
economic imperialism.
2)
Aggressive
Nationalism:
-The feeling of extreme love for one's own country and resentment for others
resulted in aggressive nationalism in Europe. Many great powers in Europe
became expansionist under the guise of nationalism. Germany, Russia and Austria all were trying to
capture new territories which increased international rivalry.
3)
Militarism: -The belief
that only military power can ensure important place in world politics led to a
race to increase military among European nations. Large number of destructive
arms and ammunitions were manufactured by the nations confidentially to outwit
each other in the race of expansion. This made the situation in Europe
explosive
4)
Diplomatic
groupsim:
-Diplomatic (political) groupsim which
began in Europe during the region of Bismarck, led to the strained relationship
among nations. Bismarck made friendship with Austria and kept France isolated.
Later he included Italy in the group because of the religious and colonial
conflicts between France and Italy. At the same time he ensured that
France and England do not come together. This resulted in formation of triple
Alliance comprising of Germany, Austria and Italy.
5)
Germany's
increasing strength: -During the rule of Kaiser William II, Germany
made great progress in industrial sector, trade and commerce. Development of a
powerful navy, capture of several regions in Africa and Asia, creation of new
naval base created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety (worry). Berlin
Baghdad rail route were viewed as a threat to the English influence in Asia and
intensified the conflict between England and Germany.
6)
Division of
Europe into two rival groups: -Germany's expansionist policy brought
England and France together forgetting about their traditional rivalry. Japan
was also included in the group to ensure security of trade and colonies in
Asia. Later on Russia's inclusion in the group created rival group of nations
comprising of England, France and Russia as against Triple Alliance-Germany,
Austria and Italy.
7)
Balkan Crisis: -The strategic
importance of Balkan region and the imperialist desire of the rival nations
like Austria and Russia
created Balkan
crisis. Following annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina by Austria, an
atmosphere of unrest prevailed over Balkan regions.
8)
Murder of
Archduke Ferdinand: -Assassination of Austria's crown prince Archduke Ferdinand by a Serbian
nationalist at Sarajevo provided immediate cause that sparked off the First World War.
