First World War

[lizwizz]

Which was the most important long-term factor in causing the First World War? I have to do this for my homework and I'm stuck. the factors are militarism, nationalism, alliances and imperialism.

[peggys-dad]

nationalism (in my humble opinion)

[dot.hawkes]

or alliances, them Balkans were so fickle and went where the money was

[sddsddean]

I'd say alliances too; thats why it all escalated so quickly into pan European war.

[heathfield]

Why not try Google with 'WW1 causes'? There are many websites that will answer your question, such as this one.

[Lil O'lady]

This is a view by an American diplomat - http://wwi.lib.byu.edu/index.php/Colonel_House %27s_Report_to_President_Wilson
He homes in on hatred and jealousy - doesn't fit with any of the 'isms' you've been told to use but it is an eyewitness account of the build-up to war.

[lizwizz]

Thanks to everyone, lots of useful info.