The alliance system, which divided Europe into two opposing camps, also played a significant role in the outbreak of the war.
Nationalism, with its emphasis on loyalty to one's own nation, led to rivalries and conflicts between countries.
Alliances were formed as a means of protection against potential threats from other countries.
Militarism, or the belief that military strength is necessary for national security, contributed to an arms race and increased hostility between nations.
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by Gavrilo Princip was the immediate trigger for World War I.
Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne
June 28th, 1914 - date of the assassination
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand triggered the First World War, which had underlying causes such as Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, and Nationalism.
Militarism led to an arms race due to competition and fear among nations, with Germany trying to compete in a naval race with Britain by building more ships.
Alliances were formed to maintain the balance of power among nations, with Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy forming the Triple Alliance in 1882.
In response to the Triple Alliance, France, Britain, and Russia formed the Triple Entente in 1907.
Imperialism led to competition and disagreements, with the British and French empires causing jealousy in Germany as it tried to colonize parts of Africa.
Nationalism fostered the belief that some countries were superior to others and promoted anti-Austro-Hungarian sentiments in Serbia.
Seven young Bosnian Serbs, members of the nationalist Black Hand, planned the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary.