Causes of World War I

Grade 845 min

Learning Objective

I can explain how militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism contributed to the outbreak of World War One.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

CAUSES of World War I [AP World History] Unit 7 Topic 2 (7.2)

Heimler's History

Practice

14 min

7 questions • Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Explain how the build-up of militaries in Europe, specifically between Britain and Germany, contributed to the outbreak of World War One. Describe how the alliance system in Europe transformed a regional conflict (between Austria-Hungary and Serbia) into a larger war involving multiple nations. Explain how competition for colonies (imperialism) created tension and rivalries between European powers, contributing to the outbreak of World War One.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts