The Domino Theory and World War I Essay Example

aimed at resolving past conflicts and preventing future hostilities, though it did not include a military alliance. The most significant treaty was created in 1907 when the Anglo-Russian Entente was formed, bringing an end to past disputes and linking Russia with Britain and France. This ultimately resulted in the formation of the Triple Entente, or the allied powers.

The countries of Europe believed that forming alliances would prevent major wars. However, they failed to consider the consequence - these alliances would lead all countries into war if any battles occurred. The underlying theory was that closely linked nations could resolve disturbances peacefully. Yet, when war broke out in 1914, multiple alliances had to be activated. France aided Russia and Britain became involved as well. On the other side, Germany and Austria collaborated while Italy remained neutral and distanced themselves from them. Eventually, Bulgaria and the Ottoman Empire aligned with Germany.

The purpose of the European alliances was to determine the opposing sides in the Great War: the Central Powers (including Germany and Austria) and the Entente powers (France, Britain, and Russia). The outbreak of war was greatly influenced by the rise of nationalism shortly before. This emphasis on empowering people led to a aggressive public sentiment. As more war hawks emerged within each country, the likelihood of war increased, as even minor issues were seen as reasons for conflict. For instance, the British displayed their nationalist fervor through a song called "The Land of Hope and Glory," [1] which honored their nation as a symbol of freedom.

God who made thee mightier, make thee mightier yet. ” This was a popular song and its lyrics alone exemplified the

common feeling of superiority. Many of the countries at the time felt the need to show off their dominance as all of them felt that they were the most superior. Germany’s national anthem also shows off this, [2]“Germany, Germany above all, over everything in the world, When it steadfastly holds together, offensively and defensively. ” That alone demonstrates the German’s feeling of superiority, the first lyric explicitly states that the Germans are the greatest country.

The usage of those lines straight from their national anthem demonstrates the extent of their feeling of superiority. Moreover, nationalism played a prominent role in directly causing the war. The oppressed races, particularly the Serbs, felt it was time to overthrow the oppression imposed by countries such as Austria.

Initiating a rebellion to secure their freedom, they prompted a terrorist organization to devise a plan for assassinating the Archduke of Austria. However, nationalism, particularly Panslavism, played a significant role in contributing to the war. This ideology aimed to unite and protect all individuals of Slavic descent. Consequently, when Austria attacked Serbia in retaliation, Russia felt compelled to join.

Militarism was also increasing during this period, encompassing not only the growing arms race but also the governments' attitude towards war. This trend can be attributed to the growing influence of generals on their respective governments. J.A Cramb, an Englishman, even went as far as saying, "...I can envision no resolution to the current clash of ideals except through war."

In the period before 1914, countries participated in an unparalleled competition for armaments, leading to a swift accumulation of military forces. At the beginning of the war, significant nations such as Germany, Russia, and France had

assembled armies surpassing one million soldiers each, whereas Britain maintained dominance at sea. Under Kaiser's guidance, Germany sought to become the preeminent nation and expand its influence. To accomplish this objective, they endorsed Tirpitz's Naval Law that entailed building a fleet of "dreadnought" battleships renowned for their exceptional power during that time.

The need for other countries to increase their power arose due to one country's increase in power, which threatened the existing power hierarchy. To safeguard its Pacific colonies from Germany's growing naval power and protect its overseas possessions, Britain formed a treaty with Japan in 1902. In addition to building strong armies, it was essential for nations to establish substantial reserves that would serve as both a standing army and a formidable reserve during emergencies. Germany emerged as the most prepared, with 8.5 million reserves, while Russia closely followed with 4.4 million and France with 3 million.

Germany had the highest reserves in 1914, totaling 8 million. Russia followed with 6 million, and Austria with 3 million. The Germans were worried about the rapid growth of Russian reserves. Two other factors contributing to the war were imperialism and the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand. While not as significant as the other causes, the assassination served as an immediate catalyst for all the issues at hand. It was common for nations that believed in their superiority to exert dominance and impose their desires on others.

Africa experienced the most significant impact, particularly as numerous countries attempted to occupy large territories. The clash between French and British armies came dangerously close to causing a conflict. However, Germany's involvement exacerbated the already tense atmosphere in Europe. The assassination of Archduke

Ferdinand served as a trigger, transforming a localized problem into a continental war, ultimately escalating into a global conflict among world powers. This event sparked a devastating battle, introducing unprecedented levels of death and technology that increased the dangers of warfare, surpassing anything seen in history before.

The issues of militarism, nationalism, imperialism, and animosity merged into the acronym MANIA, causing Europe to become a tense and volatile scene in the 1910's. The assassination led to Austria and Serbia declaring war on each other. Additionally, Panslavism, a nationalistic sentiment among Slavic people, prompted Russia to enter the conflict in support of the Slavs.