Final answer:
World War I involved major global powers and was sparked by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, leading to widespread conflict beyond Europe, including the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Step-by-step explanation:
World War I Overview
The conflict that erupted in Europe and spread throughout the world, known as World War I, was characterized by fierce nationalism and geopolitical maneuvering. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in Sarajevo by Gavrilo Princip was a catalyst for the outbreak of the war. This event caused a chain reaction that brought major powers into conflict, fueled by intricate alliances and treaties. Austria-Hungary's declaration of war on Serbia, with Germany's backing, ultimately drew in Russia, France, Great Britain, and eventually the Ottoman Empire, among others.
The war was not confined to Europe, as it saw battles in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, with troops from around the world, including places as distant as India and New Zealand, participating. Japan's seizure of Tsingtao, a German-controlled Chinese port, exemplified the global nature of the conflict.
Throughout the duration of the war, the concept of nationalism played a significant role in both igniting and sustaining the conflict. Germany and Italy, as newer nations at the time, experienced a surge in nationalistic fervor, while in other regions, separatist movements sought to create independent states, such as in Ireland and within the Slavic territories under Austro-Hungarian control. This sentiment contributed to the complexity and duration of the war.