Alliances were the main cause for the First World War. Discuss (2024)

Alliances can be seen as the main cause for the First World War, because the alliance system brought in a substantial number of countries from Europe into a Balkan conflict. Due to the nature of the Triple Entente and the Triple Alliance, world superpowers were forced into the conflict over the assassination of Franz Ferdinand which could have been resolved between Serbia and Austria-Hungary. This therefore created a world war instead of a small conflict. Not only did alliances enhance the size of the war but the system set the sides that would be fighting each other when war broke out. The alliance system began creating tension between the two sides from an early stage. Creating a defensive atmosphere and the reassurance that one country would be supported by their alliance if they were to engage in conflict. These reasons encouraged the fighting countries to seek conflict rather than peaceful resolution when tensions were at their highest.Although alliances played an important factor in the cause of the First World War, it is not the most important. The alliances had a defensive nature, this acted as a deterrent for war. Ideologies such as nationalism and militarism were far more important as a cause of the First World War. The societal view across Europe focused on being seen as the best country. Sided with Germany's fear of isolation, many people associated strength with winning a war. The desire to prove oneself as the superior country led to people supporting the idea of war, making it easier for governments to pursue conflict over peace. Militarism and nationalism go hand in hand as having the best military links with being the strongest country. The growing military strength and the arms race between Germany and Britain created strong resources that were ready to be used. The growing acceptance of conflict is more important than alliances as public opinion can sway a governments decision. The alliance systems were more for protection and defence whereas ideological standpoints encouraged governments to make the decisions to go to war.