Causes of World War I

There were 3 major causes for World War I. One of the reasons is nationalism. Nations want to become the most powerful nation in the world. They will compete for land with other countries, and it usually ends up with a war with the other country. Other countries want to be independent, like the country of Serbia. They don't like to be controlled by Austria-Hungary.

Another main cause of the War is militarism. Many countries went to build an army of solders to protect their native land. They built more railways so supplies can transfer from 1 area to another. They also built modern weapons that can kill more people than if you were to use a rifle. Britain and Germany also made a navy and battleships.

The 3rd main cause is the separation of the alliance systems in Europe. When the Franco- Prussian War ended, secret alliances were formed in Europe. However, it ended up with the alliances feeling suspicious of their fellow countries. They suspect that their allies are being secret allies with other countries, sometimes with their enemies.