Photo AI
Write an account of how the Alliance System contributed to the spread of conflict in 1914. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 3
Write an account of how the Alliance System contributed to the spread of conflict in 1914.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write an account of how the Alliance System contributed to the spread of conflict in 1914. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
The role of alliances in Europe
Answer
The Alliance System was integral in shaping the political landscape of Europe leading up to World War I. By 1914, major European powers were divided into two primary alliances: the Triple Alliance, consisting of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, and the Triple Entente, formed by France, Russia, and Britain. This division heightened tensions, as countries were obligated to support their allies in the event of military conflict.
Step 2
Escalation after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand
Answer
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in June 1914 set off a chain reaction due to the Alliance System. Austria-Hungary issued an ultimatum to Serbia, who sought the support of Russia. Due to the alliance commitments, Russia mobilized its army to support Serbia, which prompted Germany to declare war on Russia. This escalation was fueled by the mutual obligations of the alliances.
Step 3
The domino effect of military mobilizations
Answer
As each country mobilized its forces, the interconnected alliances continued to draw more nations into the conflict. Germany's declaration of war on France and the invasion of Belgium led Britain to enter the war, as it was committed to protecting Belgian neutrality. Thus, the Alliance System transformed a regional conflict into a full-scale world war, demonstrating how entrenched alliances exacerbated the situation.