There were many causes responsible for the outbreak of the First World War. Describe how did the following lead to the First World War?

(a) Division of Europe into two armed camps.

(b) Imperialism, i.e., race for Colonies.

(a) Division of Europe into two armed camps:

1. In 1879 Germany and Austria-Hungary had signed a Treaty to help each other in case of enemy attack. Three years later Italy joined the Pact, which came to be known as the Triple Alliance.
2. As opposed to the Triple Alliance emerged the Triple Entente comprising Britain, France and Russia in 1907 to control German expansionism.
3. The French expression 'Entente' means 'understanding or alliance'.
4. Thus Europe was divided into two major camps—on one side were England, France and Russia and on the other Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy and Turkey.
5. The suspicions, fears, rivalry and enmity between the two camps was a major step towards World War I.

(b) Imperialism (race for colonies):

1. There was a mad struggle among the European nations for new territories in Africa and Asia in the 19th century.
2. Great Britain established many colonies in Africa, followed by France, Spain, Portugal and Belgium.
3. Britain and France had occupied most of the regions of Africa.
4. The colonies were important for the European colonial powers in order to increase their supremacy and wealth.
5. Colonies provided raw materials for their industries and markets for their finished products.
6. When Germany entered the race for establishing colonies, Britain and France made a secret agreement in 1904.
7. According to this agreement Britain was to have political control over Egypt and France was to take over Morocco.
8. But the French claim over Morocco was opposed by Germany.
9. The German Emperor proclaimed that he would uphold the independence of Morocco and her Sultan.
10. He said all the nations should have equal opportunities to trade with that country.
11. Germany tried to force her opinion on France by sending a gun boat, Panther.
12. The war between these nations seemed imminent, but it was averted, partly owing to American mediation.