To What Extent Was German Aggression the Cause of the First World War?
Some historians argue that blame for WW1 is with Germany, through her aggressive foreign policy, whilst others believe it to be with Austria-Hungary for instigating the clash in the Balkans, which eventually, it is argued, created war. Many believe it was the effect of colonial imperialism, and greed that compelled the world leaders to launch an attack enhancing their individual status in the balance of European and World-power. The issue of blame is one which has caused vast controversy throughout history, and was controversially re-opened in the 1960’s by Fischer. Other theories include, the impact of trade rivalry on tension between powers and in launching the arms race thus reinforcing the competition for power and deterioration of relations. It is evident that the decision makers of 1914 were influenced by the tensions built up in the previous twenty years.
Historians have highlighted imperial rivalry and the statesman who proliferated its values as responsible for war. The country with colonial superiority had majority influence meaning the struggle to be part of the most prestigious empire was at the heart of the many countries around Europe. As Crowe stated, ‘The dream of a colonial empire had taken a deep hold on the German public opinion.’ This craving for international power led to strained relations and various clashes in the build up to WW1, for example, the First Moroccan Crisis. France (and Britain) issued a programme of reform to bring Morocco stability, and in response Germany evoked an antagonistic, political dispute contesting their influence in the hope that they would withdraw. Some historians believe Germany’s aggressive tactics were attempting to threaten France out of Morocco so Germany could annex the region. It seems that the Kaiser’s belligerent attempt to establish colonies put international relations at an all-time low. However, that is not to suggest that other countries are not equally at fault of colonial rivalry. For instance, had
Historians have highlighted imperial rivalry and the statesman who proliferated its values as responsible for war. The country with colonial superiority had majority influence meaning the struggle to be part of the most prestigious empire was at the heart of the many countries around Europe. As Crowe stated, ‘The dream of a colonial empire had taken a deep hold on the German public opinion.’ This craving for international power led to strained relations and various clashes in the build up to WW1, for example, the First Moroccan Crisis. France (and Britain) issued a programme of reform to bring Morocco stability, and in response Germany evoked an antagonistic, political dispute contesting their influence in the hope that they would withdraw. Some historians believe Germany’s aggressive tactics were attempting to threaten France out of Morocco so Germany could annex the region. It seems that the Kaiser’s belligerent attempt to establish colonies put international relations at an all-time low. However, that is not to suggest that other countries are not equally at fault of colonial rivalry. For instance, had