European Powers essays

European Powers essays Assess critically how any two of the great European powers contributes to the causes of World War I. The increase of militarism across Europe and the fierce devotion to alliances in the two major European powers, Germany and Russia, contributed to the inevitable outbreak of World War I. Another factor was nationalism in the two countries. While Germany nationalism unified its people in the late 19th century, the many diverse ethnic cultures in Russia pulled at the nation's unity. In the time leading up to World War I Russia was struggling to prove itself as a major power in Europe. Between 1870-1914 Germany had built up its army to be double the size of the army they were fighting with during the Franco- Prussian War. They felt it was important to have a very large and well organized military in order to keep up with Britain's superior military. At sea Britain had been the "master" for many, many years and Germany felt as though it was their turn. By creating these huge battle ships to out-do each other, the British and German's competition continued as more and more military technological advances occurred. This competition led to massive weapon development and the tension grew between the British and Germans because of it. Meanwhile, Russia was still having a difficult time with its industry. Some say Russia's economy was moving "backwards" and unlike countries around it, no technological progress had taken place during the Industrial Revolution. The lack of advances began to lead to inner turmoil in Russia and tension throughout the country due to its poor economy and its inability to defend itself in case of a war. As 1914 came closer to August, major European tension began to rise. By July the Austrian- Hungarian Empire had declared was on Serbia, and due to Russia's need to have power, over too much, the tension arose in Russia. At this point Nicholas thought it was pertinent and mandatory t...