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Franco-Prussian War
France was defeated leading to the creation of a powerful German Empire. -
Wilhelm II becomes German Kaiser
German foreign policy became more aggressive. He damaged relationships with France and Russia that helped them create an alliance. -
Imperialism
Created rivalries between European countries to expand territories and gain control -
Nationalism
Tension between countries caused by nationalism led to WWI. Nations challenged the old European superpowers. -
Militarism
As militaries grew bigger, all of the countries began to eel threatened -
Russo-Japanese War
the Russian defeat ended their ambitions in the Far East so their government focused on Europe. This strengthened the old rivalry with Austro-Hungary. -
The Moroccan Crises
Provoked by Germany to create tension between France and Great Britain but it had the opposite effect. Strengthened the Triple Entente and increased British anger toward Germany. -
Military Alliances
Defense agreements were made between countries. These would pull them into battle that would help their alliance. (Triple Entente and Triple Alliance) -
Bosnian Annexation Crisis
Austro-Hungary annexed Bosnia. This damaged relationships between Russia, Serbia and Austro-Hungary. -
Italo-Turkish War
The Turkish defeat showed the weakness of the Ottoman army and disagreements between the European powers. -
Balkan Wars
A military Alliance (Balkan League) led by Serbia, conquered and divided the Balkan territory. This worried Austro-Hungary which did not want a strong Serbia. -
Assassination
The Granduke Franz Ferdinand of Austro-Hungary was assassinated -
July Ultimatum
Austro-Hungary presented an ultimatum to Serbia but with impossible demands so that they could declare war with Serbia because of the assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand.