World War 1 - Thematic Essay

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The 1800s experienced a growth in militarism, the glorification of the military. The growth was partly out of Social Darwinism. Emphasizing the idea of “survival of the fittest.” With international tensions on the rise, the great powers expanded their armies and navies. Resulting in an arms race that further increased the likeliness of war. No nation wanted war, but they were getting prepared for it. The fiercest competition was the naval rivalry between Britain and Germany. To protect vast oversea empire, Britain had built the world’s most respected navy. Germany began acquiring overseas colonies, they began to build up their own navy. Readiness began to dominate national policy, military leaders came to gain wider influences. For peace and war the government turned to military leaders for advice. German generals and British admirals enjoyed great respect and got more funds to expand their forces.

Distrust resulted in the great powers to sign treaties pledging to defend one another. Alliances were intended to create a powerful combination that no one would dare attack. Two huge alliances developed. The first alliance had its origin in Bismarck’s day. Knowing that France longed to achieve revenge from the Franco-Prussian war would not attack without assistance, Bismarck signed treaties with other powers. The Triple alliance with Italy and Austria-Hungry was formed in 1882. In 1914, when war broke out, Germany and Austria-Hungry fought on the same side. They became known as the Central Powers. France and Russia formed an alliance in 1894. In 1904, France and Britain signed an entente, a nonbinding agreement to follow common policies. Not as formal as a treaty, the entente led to close military and diplomatic ties. Britain then signed a similar treaty with Russia. These powers became known as the Allies. Then Germany signed a treaty with the Ottoman Empire, while Britain drew closer to Japan. Growth of rival alliances increased international tensions. Eventually resulting into war.

In Conclusion many attempts were made to preserve peace among all nations. The Olympic Games, Nobel Peace prize, women joining peace groups/movements, and Hague Tribunal were all put in place to promote peace. In the end Nationalism, Militarism, Economic conflicts, and Alliances all painted the picture for war.