Question

How did militarism contribute to the outbreak of World War I?

A. It polarized Europe into two opposing camps, increasing the likelihood of a large-scale war.
B. It encouraged the development of rivalries and competition as nations sought to expand their global empires.
C. It fostered a sense of national pride and a willingness to defend one's country by any means necessary.
D. It led to a buildup of weapons and military forces in Europe, escalating tensions and distrust.

Answer 1

Militarism led to a buildup of military forces and an arms race, creating high tension among nations and reducing the chance for diplomacy, which significantly contributed to the outbreak of World War I.

Step-by-step explanation:

Militarism contributed to the outbreak of World War I primarily because it led to a buildup of weapons and military forces in Europe, escalating tensions and distrust among nations. This intense focus on military strength and preparedness can be encapsulated in the great European arms race, particularly exemplified by the increasing size of navies and the introduction of the Dreadnought battleship. Moreover, militarism fostered a climate where nations such as Germany felt encircled by potential enemies, prompting them to adopt aggressive defensive postures. Germany's strategic plans, along with those of other nations, relied on rapid mobilization, further reducing the opportunity for diplomatic resolution and increasing the likelihood of a large-scale war as one nation's mobilization compelled others to follow suit.