Final answer:
Militarism in the years leading up to World War 1 resulted in countries building large armies and stockpiling powerful weapons.
Step-by-step explanation:
Militarism in the years leading up to World War 1 had the effect of countries building large armies and stockpiling powerful weapons. The major European powers engaged in an arms race, each trying to outdo the other in military strength. This arms race was fueled by a desire to showcase their strength and prestige. For example, Germany embarked on a quest to build a navy to rival that of Great Britain, creating tension between the two nations.