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Causes of World War I — Reading Comprehension

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This comprehensive history reading passage explores the complex causes of World War I, focusing on alliances, nationalism, imperialism, and the assassination that triggered the conflict. Students will learn about the interconnected relationships between European powers, the impact of militarism, and the significance of geographic and political factors. Primary sources and historical evidence are woven throughout, allowing students to analyze history like a historian. The passage and activities are aligned with HSS 10.5 and RH.6-8.1, RH.6-8.2 standards. Additional features include a glossary of key academic terms, multiple-choice and writing activities, two graphic organizers, a timeline, and a Spanish translation. Audio read aloud support is included for accessibility. This resource is ideal for building informational text skills and understanding major world events.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Where the great war started. In Sarajevo, province of Bosnia, the excuse for the Great War was made by the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand. It brought untold suffering and misery to the children of this country. Many died from starvation until the American Red Cross opened its feeding stations. Here are shown a group of school children about a Red Cross canteen in Sarajevo.
Source: Library of Congress

World War I began in 1914 because of a combination of political, economic, and social factors that built up over decades. The war involved many nations, mostly in Europe, and became one of the deadliest conflicts in history. Understanding the causes of World War I helps us see how global events can be shaped by complex relationships and decisions.

One major cause was the system of alliances that developed among European powers. By the early 1900s, countries like Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy had formed the Triple Alliance. Meanwhile, France, Russia, and Great Britain created the Triple Entente. These alliances were meant to provide security, but instead, they increased tension and suspicion. For example, a letter from British Foreign Secretary Sir Edward Grey in 1914 shows how alliances made it likely that a conflict between two countries could quickly involve many others.

Another cause was nationalism, a strong sense of pride and loyalty to one's nation. Nationalism made people in countries like Serbia want independence from empires like Austria-Hungary. It also led to rivalries among nations, as each tried to prove its power. In the Balkans, sometimes called the "Powder Keg of Europe," different groups struggled for control. For instance, a Serbian nationalist group called the Black Hand planned the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne. This event, which took place in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914, became the immediate trigger for the war.

Imperialism and militarism also played important roles. Imperialism is when a country seeks to expand its power by controlling colonies or other territories. European countries competed fiercely for colonies in Africa and Asia. This competition led to arguments and mistrust. Militarism is the belief in building up strong armed forces. Countries spent large amounts of money on weapons and armies, making war seem more likely. German military plans, like the Schlieffen Plan of 1905, are examples of how nations prepared for large-scale conflict. Political leaders, such as Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany, often spoke about the importance of military strength in speeches and public documents.

These causes combined over time, creating an unstable situation by 1914. When Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. Because of the alliances, other countries were quickly drawn in. Within weeks, much of Europe was at war. The war led to massive loss of life, changed borders, and affected societies around the world. By analyzing the causes, we can see how geography, politics, and human choices can shape world events.

This study of the origins of World War I connects to broader themes in world history, such as how societies respond to conflict and how decisions by leaders impact millions.

Interesting Fact: The assassination weapon used in Sarajevo was a Browning FN M1910 pistol, which is now kept in the Museum of Military History in Vienna.

When did World War I begin?

1914190519391920

Who was assassinated in Sarajevo?

Archduke Franz FerdinandKaiser Wilhelm IISir Edward GreyKing George V

Which countries formed the Triple Entente?

France, Russia, BritainGermany, Italy, Austria-HungarySerbia, Russia, GermanyAustria-Hungary, Britain, Italy

Why did alliances increase tension?

Made war more likelyKept peace foreverStopped nationalismReduced militarism

How did nationalism affect the Balkans?

Groups wanted independenceCreated peaceStopped rivalriesEnded imperialism

What was the immediate trigger for war?

Archduke assassinationAlliance formationColonial competitionEconomic crisis