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Causes of World War I

Driving Question: What were the causes of World War I, and what were its consequences?

If we could tell you exactly what started the First World War, this would be a pretty short lesson. But it’s not that simple; this massive and violent conflict had many origins. In fact, you have already investigated many of the political, ideological, economic, and social factors that were simmering away in that big pot known as the long nineteenth century. Here, you’ll get a chance to examine the causes—one ingredient at a time—to better understand the big soupy mess that boiled over from 1914 to 1918.

Learning Objectives

  1. Explain the causes and consequences of World War I.
  2. Analyze multiple scholarly perspectives regarding the causes of World War I. 

Vocab Terms:

  • alliance
  • consumerism
  • diplomacy
  • infrastructure
  • interdependence
  • militarism
  • mobilization
STEP 2

What Caused the First World War?

Historians offer a number of different causes of World War I, ranging from the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand to deeper issues like nationalism, imperialism, and alliance systems. Some even argue that the war was simply a tragic accident, made worse by outdated diplomacy and rising industrial powers.

STEP 3

Capitalism and World War I

Though many business leaders initially opposed the war due to fears of economic disruption, wartime production proved highly profitable for some. After the war, countries like Germany faced economic collapse, while others, like the United States, became wealthier and more powerful.

STEP 4

Closer: Causes of World War I

This lesson has covered a lot—including the causes of an entire global war! Take some time to reflect on all you’ve learned.

Extension Materials
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Join John Green as he takes a deeper look at the causes that ignited World War I.
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How World War I Started: Crash Course World History #209

Wait, so how did World War I start again? Let’s do a quick Crash Course to refresh your memory!

How World War I Started: Crash Course World History #209 External link

In the summer of 1914, things got pretty heated. Serbian nationalists and an Austrian archduke unleashed tensions that had simmered in Europe for decades.

Key Ideas

As this video progresses, key ideas will be introduced to invoke discussion.