The Origins of the First World War, 1905–14

Causes of the First World War

Entangling Alliances: Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Ottoman Empire) vs. Allied Powers (Russia, France, United Kingdom). Alliances led to a domino effect of war declarations once Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia.
Imperialism: European nations’ desire to expand their empires led to conflicts and rivalries.
Militarism: Growth in defence spending and arms race particularly between Germany and UK led to tensions and contributed towards a war-like atmosphere.
Nationalism: Strong nationalistic sentiments, especially in Balkans and Austria-Hungary, increased international frictions.

Key Events Leading to Outbreak of War

First Moroccan Crisis (1905-1906): Germany’s attempt to challenge France’s control over Morocco stirred international tension.
Bosnian Crisis (1908-1909): Austria-Hungary’s annexation of Bosnia led to strife with Serbia and Russia.
Second Moroccan Crisis (1911): Germany’s attempt to intimidate France into concessions in Morocco escalated tension between the Great Powers.
Balkan Wars (1912-1913): Wars among Balkan nations were indicative of wider political unrest in Europe.
Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (1914): This was the immediate trigger that led to Austria-Hungary declaring war on Serbia.

Role of Key Individuals and Nations

Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany: His policies and aggressive foreign strategy, especially his naval expansion, were significant in causing instability.
Tsar Nicholas II of Russia: Russia’s backing of Serbia against Austria-Hungary and the subsequent mobilisation of troops contributed to the outbreak of war.
Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary: His assassination by a Serbian nationalist led directly to the declaration of war on Serbia.
United Kingdom: UK’s involvement in the war was contingent upon Germany violating Belgium neutrality, as per the (1839) Treaty of London.

Impact of Economic Factors

Industrialisation: Countries with strong industries had a military advantage. Germany and UK were both significant industrial powers.
Economic rivalries: Economic competition, especially between Britain and Germany (naval arms race), contributed to rising international tension.
Colonial wealth: The scramble for colonies also reflected in an economic rivalry among the European powers.

Remember to draw linkages between the causes, key events, role of individuals/nations, and economic factors for a holistic understanding of the origins of the First World War.