Imperialism was a factor as a bigger empire was seen as a sign of power and superiority, which Germany desperately wanted. Also, the Greater Powers had many overseas colonies, getting other countries involved, and therefore increasing the range of the war.
The Alliance System was also a contributor due to certain alliances being formed and disintegrated, tension was incredibly high in Europe.
Nationalism, on the other hand, resulted in unquestionable loyalty, which, while sounds like a positive thing, meant that no-one would question its country’s actions and would follow them blindly like sheep, leading to conflict in Europe.
As the tension grew higher and higher, militarism was on the rise. The countries involved poured money into their militaries and creating larger armies, causing an arms race to begin.
All these factors combined, with the ridiculously high tension between the countries in Europe, resulted in the First World War
The Commonwealth of Australia, still part of the British Empire, immediately offered 20,000 men to Britain to assist them in the war. Australia responded to the war with widespread enthusiasm and unanimity.
Very informative :)
ReplyDeletei love how the sheep is red ;P
what is that dude carrying in the photo? o-o
Can you offer a bit more information about the systems of alliances that were in place prior to the outbreak of war? How did the alliances contribute to the expansion of the war?
ReplyDeleteWhy yes! I was married, such a long time ago!
ReplyDeleteIn January 1921 I married Ethel Clara Young, such a lovely nursing sister at the Queanbeyan hospital :D
Sadly I did not have any children </3