1. Imperialism
1.1. Imperialism was the most important cause of WW1. This was due to the fact that most central European countries wanted to expand their territory thus creating tension between them. As each country tried to expand the tension increased which eventually resulted in WW1.
2. Alliances
2.1. Alliances played a major role in the causes of WW1, this is because when Alliances or Ententes were formed, other countries felt threatened.
2.1.1. The triple Alliance
2.1.1.1. The triple alliance was a secret alliance between Germany, Austro-Hungary and Italy. They allied because they each felt threatened and by forming this alliance they assured safety for each other. When other countries found out about the triple alliance a lot of tension rose and many other governments felt threatened.
2.1.2. The triple entente
2.1.2.1. The triple entente was an unofficial alliance between France, Russia and Britain. The triple entente was formed because each of these countries felt threatened by the triple alliance and needed safety. This entente was essentially the factor that started WW1.
3. Nationalism
3.1. Nationalism was not a major cause for WW1 but it did contribute to creating tension. Nationalism is putting your own countries needs before others which essentially created tension between countries due to the press writing biased reports and 'racist' articles in the papers.
4. Major battles
4.1. First battle of the Marne
4.1.1. This battle was the first, Germany was hoping not having to fight on two fronts and therefore planned to fight France before fighting Russia. It went well for Germany at first, however they didn't have enough reinforcements on time and France and Britain took this opportunity to counter-attack and eventually Germany retreated.
4.2. Battle of the Somme
4.2.1. The battle of the Somme happened in 1916 and was a joint battle between France and Britain VS Germany. Britain and France had been planning this and the idea was that Britain would be the main offence. Germany had been laying out well structured defences prior to the attack and despite seven days of bombarding from the French and British, the Brits couldn't get past the defences fast enough and what was supposed to be revenge from France and Britain turned into the most deadly battle for Britain in WW1.
5. M.A.I.N
5.1. Militarism
5.1.1. Militarism is the proper definition for military forces such as army, navy, bombs, guns, grenades etc...
5.2. Alliances
5.2.1. An alliance is the 'friendship' between two or more countries. It is a promise to help the other country if they are in need of military forces or supports etc...
5.3. Imperialism
5.3.1. Imperialism is the action of conquering countries which do not belong to the conqueror in order to expand the land area of the conquering country.
5.4. Nationalism
5.4.1. Nationalism is feeling an extreme proud in one's country, it is a form of patriotism.