Key Terms & Concepts
What does the acronym A.N.I.M.A.L. stand for when remembering the causes of WWI?
Alliances, Nationalism, Imperialism, Militarism, Assassination, Leaders
How did nationalism contribute to rising tensions before WWI?
Nationalist groups wanted independence or to reclaim land, causing mistrust and hostility (e.g., France wanted Alsace-Lorraine back from Germany)
Place these events in order:
(a) Germany declares war on Russia
(b) Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand
(c) Britain declares war on Germany
(b) → (a) → (c)
Explain how the assassination acted as a “spark” for war.
It triggered Austria-Hungary’s declaration of war on Serbia, setting off the alliance chain reaction
What is an alliance in the context of WWI?
An agreement between countries to aid and protect one another, especially if one is attacked
Why did imperialism lead to conflict between European nations?
They competed for colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, creating rivalry and disputes
What date did Austria-Hungary declare war on Serbia?
July 28, 1914
Why might Germany have felt it had to support Austria-Hungary after the assassination?
Because of their alliance obligations and to maintain their influence in the Balkans
Who was assassinated on June 28, 1914, sparking WWI?
Archduke Franz Ferdinand
How did the system of alliances make a small conflict grow into a world war?
Once one nation was attacked, its allies were obligated to join, pulling more countries into the conflict like a chain reaction
Which country did Germany invade on its way to attack France?
Belgium
What role did imperial competition play in worsening relations between Britain and Germany?
Both nations competed for colonies and naval superiority, increasing tension
What is militarism?
The policy of building up strong armed forces to prepare for war
Why did Britain join WWI after Germany invaded Belgium?
Britain had a long-standing promise to defend Belgium’s neutrality
Name the two main alliance systems before WWI.
The Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the Triple Entente (France, Russia, Britain)
Why was the Balkan Peninsula known as the “powder keg of Europe”?
It was unstable due to nationalist movements and constant conflicts over territory
What was the name of the Serbian nationalist group that carried out the assassination?
The Black Hand
How did militarism create fear between nations?
The arms race (especially between Britain and Germany) made countries suspicious and ready for war
Which country was allied with Serbia and mobilised troops against Austria-Hungary?
Russia
How did alliances both protect nations and make them more vulnerable?
They provided security but also forced countries into wars they might have otherwise avoided