Final answer:
The causes of WWI were militarism, alliances, nationalism, and imperialism. These factors led to heightened tensions and a volatile environment, ultimately resulting in the outbreak of the war.
Step-by-step explanation:
Causes of WWI
The causes of World War I can be attributed to several factors:
- Militarism: The aggressive buildup of military forces by European powers, sparked by the arms race, where countries competed to have the largest and most powerful military. This led to heightened tensions and a readiness for war.
- Alliances: Various alliances formed between countries, such as the Triple Entente and the Central Powers, which created a complex web of interlocking commitments. When one country was attacked, its allies were obliged to join the conflict, causing the war to spread.
- Nationalism: Strong feelings of patriotism and loyalty to one's own nation fueled tensions between countries, as each sought to protect its own interests and assert its dominance.
- Imperialism: The competition among European powers to acquire colonies and extend their influence around the world. This created friction and conflicts over territory and resources.
Overall, these factors combined to create a volatile environment that ultimately resulted in the outbreak of World War I.
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