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Factors That Led To The Causes Of World War I

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LESSON 19 - World War 1

Objectives:

Identify and describe the factors that led to the outbreak of World War I Describe the terms Nationalism, Imperialism, Militarism, Alliance Describe the causes and effects of World War I on the United States of America

The Battle Lines are Drawn

Four factors contributed to the outbreak of World War I in Europe:

Nationalism: anger grew as nations pursued only their own interests. Imperialism: rivalries increased as nations competed for power around the world. Militarism: the nations developed strong, proud armed forces to back up their growing empires. Alliances: a series of treaties grouped the nations of Europe into two armed camps.

World War 1 broke out in 1914 when a Serbian killed the heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary. Russia then defended Serbia against Austria-Hungary when they reacted to the assassination. Germany supported Austria-Hungary by declaring war on France, who at that time was Russia's ally. Soon after, Great Britain, who was France's ally, retaliated by declaring war on Germany. Armies opposed each other across a system of trenches across Europe. Many, many soldiers gave their lives in this war, but neither side gained territory. At this time, the United States refused to align themselves with either side.

Because America had strong economic ties with Great Britain and France, and because stories of the German atrocities became known, Americans began supporting the Allied

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