Question

Which event most contributed to the outbreak of World War I?

A. The reduction of military forces by states that did not take the
threat of war seriously
B. Rebellions in African and Asian colonies controlled by European
powers
C. The development of a complex network of European military
alliances
D. Popular nationalist uprisings that brought down Europe's large
empires

Answer 1

c. The development of a complex network of European military alliances

Step-by-step explanation:

after the assassination of Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary, a large chain of alliances were created throughout Europe.

A popular political cartoon helps to describe this well

In the cartoon, Serbia is about to be attacked by Austria-Hungary, who calls for Russian backup. This now leads to the ally powers being (Russia and Serbia) 2-1 (Austria-Hungary.)

Afterwards, Austria-Hungary calls for the support of Germany

Now, it’s (Russia and Serbia) 2-2 (Austria-Hungary and Germany.)

Overtime, more countries join each side, such as the Ottoman Empire (present-day Türkiye/Turkey) on the Central Powers and France, England, and the U.S. joining the Ally Powers