What were the main causes of World War I?

The primary causes of World War I are rooted in militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism, which are key concepts that significantly influenced the geopolitical landscape of the early 20th century.

Militarism refers to the arms race and the belief in the necessity of a strong military. In the years leading up to the war, many nations expanded their militaries, creating a culture that glorified military power and readiness to use force. This buildup of military strength was both a deterrent and an invitation to conflict, especially among the major European powers.

Alliances played a crucial role in escalating the conflict. A complex web of alliances was formed to provide mutual defense, which meant that a conflict between two countries could easily involve others. For example, the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary triggered a series of alliances, drawing in countries from all over Europe into the war.

Imperialism contributed to the tensions leading up to the war as nations competed for colonies and global dominance. The desire for larger empires fostered rivalries and conflicts, particularly in Africa and Asia, where European powers jockeyed for control and resources.

Nationalism fueled a sense of pride and identity among nations, often leading to aggressive foreign policies