What Caused the First World War?

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the direct trigger for World War I, but it was set off by several deeper, underlying causes.

Militarism led to an arms race fueled by competition and fear between nations. Germany, for instance, engaged in a naval race with Britain, constantly building more ships.

Alliances were formed to maintain a balance of power. The Triple Alliance was formed in 1882 by Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, while France, Britain, and Russia formed the Triple Entente in 1907.

Imperialism created competition and disputes, as countries like Germany were envious of the extensive colonial empires of Britain and France, and sought to colonize parts of Africa.

Nationalism fostered a belief in national superiority and fueled anti-Austro-Hungarian sentiment in Serbia. This led to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, by seven members of the Serbian nationalist group 'Black Hand'.