The Tension Build-Up Prior to Wwi

There was an extreme amount of tension build-up in central Europe during the turn of the 20th century. This tension was due to the strife between France and Germany. The two countries had fought a war in 1871 and the French had lost. They had to give up several provinces of land to Germany. France was sore about the lost land and made threats to take it back.

Imperialism is one country being sovereign over another without direct rule. The British rule over the American Colonies preceding the revolution was an example of imperialism. Many European countries, including Britain, France, Spain, and Italy were eager to create their own empires. There was a revival of colonization.

The Industrial Revolution helped Germany. Germany had always been an industrious country, but the Germans did not explore and colonize as the French, the Spanish, and the British did. However, Germany had always been recognized for its military prowess. They took advantage new inventions to put to practical use in their warfare. The Germans were the first to build what they called “Under-sea boats,” which are submarines. Under the reign of Kaiser Wilhelm II, Germany amassed a very impressive store of soldiers and weapons. The Germans were looking for a chance to show their power and conquer land.

The right excuse came. Austria/Hungary’s archduke and heir to the throne, Franz Ferdinand, and his wife were murdered by Serbian assassins. This sparked Austria to go to war against Serbia and Germany, ready for a fight, allied with them. Serbia was under Russian imperialistic rule, so Russia was unhesitant to join sides with Serbia.

European nations were forced to choose sides, and soon the Allies were formed. The Allies included Russia, France, Serbia, Great Britain, and later the United States.