"Serbian nationalism was the key cause of the First World War." Discuss this statement.

The First World War was precipitated by a variety of factors, many of which interlink and influence each other. This myriad of causes certainly raises issues for historians who are attempting to identify one overarching cause to The Great War. One key factor was certainly Serbian nationalism, which ultimately led to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand; an event that prompted the July Crisis, a period of tension during which war was declared. However, one cannot blame Serbian nationalism for the outbreak of war purely due to the chronological proximity of the two events. One must in fact observe long-standing issues in Europe, such as the Alliance system and German militarism. These issues exarcerbated the conflict between Serbia and Austria-Hungry, thus potentially escalating an otherwise small conflict into a world war. One must infer the liklehood of war if these long term tensions had not existed, and whether there is any credence to the arguments of historians which cite these tensions as more important factors in the outbreak of war than Serbian nationalism.

Answered by Thomas K. History tutor

4915 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

Assess the view that grievances over taxation were the most important factor in bringing about the American Revolution.


What is the best way to learn content for history?


Why did the Unions win the American Civil War?


'The rebellions which occurred during the reigns of Edward VI and Mary I were mainly political in origin.' Assess the validity of this view.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy