Week 10 Primary Source Assignment
World War I began in 1914 primarily due to an alliance system that drew many
European countries into battle. There were many factors that led to the Great War which
included economic and political instability, industrialization, and heavy competition
between European states. However, the alliances formed between each European country
caused each country to inevitably choose a side and go to war. These alliances were initially
formed out of fear during these uncertain times, and each country strived for strong security
and backup in case one of their rival countries were to engage in warlike activities. This war
was fought between the Allied Powers and the Central Powers, but it initially began with
Austria declaring war on Serbia. This declaration of war can be attributed to the Serbian led
