World War I

Model Answer

Introduction

The assertion that the First World War was fought primarily for the preservation of balance of power is partially correct, as it encompasses several interconnected factors, including alliances, nationalism, and imperialism.

Arguments Supporting the Balance of Power Theory

1. Alliances as Strategic Tools: The formation of alliances, such as the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the Triple Entente (Britain, France, Russia), was aimed at maintaining equilibrium in Europe. For example, Germany sought alliances to counterbalance the growing influence of Russia and France.
2. Germany’s Rising Power: Germany’s rapid industrial and military expansion posed a threat to British naval supremacy. This naval arms race heightened tensions, particularly with Britain perceiving Germany’s expansion as a challenge to its global dominance.
3. Colonial Rivalries: Competition for colonial territories strained relations among European powers. The Moroccan Crises (1905 and 1911) exemplified this, as conflicts between France and Germany over African colonies escalated tensions.
4. Regional Rivalries in the Balkans: The rivalry between Austria-Hungary and Russia in the Balkans became a flashpoint for conflict. The Bosnian Crisis of 1908, where Austria annexed Bosnia, destabilized the region, leading to increased tensions.
5. France’s Desire for Revenge: France’s alliances were motivated by a desire to counterbalance Germany’s power, particularly after the loss of Alsace-Lorraine in the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871).
6. Preservation of Empires: Britain and other powers entered the war to protect their empires and prevent any single nation, notably Germany, from dominating Europe.

Other Contributing Factors

1. Nationalism: Nationalist fervor, particularly in the Balkans, was a driving force behind the war. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by a Serbian nationalist exemplifies how nationalism triggered the conflict.
2. Imperialism: The desire for colonial expansion intensified rivalries, leading to conflicts over territories, such as during the Scramble for Africa.
3. Militarism: The aggressive military buildup, exemplified by Germany’s Schlieffen Plan, reflected the influence of militarism on foreign policy.
4. Economic Rivalries: Germany’s industrial rise threatened Britain’s economic dominance, further escalating tensions.
5. Failure of Diplomacy: Diplomatic efforts failed due to secret treaties and mistrust, such as the Franco-Russian Alliance of 1894, which heightened tensions.

Conclusion

While the preservation of balance of power was a significant factor in the outbreak of the First World War, it was interwoven with nationalism, imperialism, and economic rivalries. The interplay of these elements, along with the failure of diplomacy and the rise of militarism, ultimately drove Europe into a devastating conflict that reshaped the global political landscape.