History 2404E Lecture : Lectures Notes 2.docx
15 Apr 2012
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Long term causes of the first world war. March 20: structural reasons for the increasingly deadly and total form of warfare, the influence of industrialization on warfare. New machines techniques used to promote human progress were turned to kill people (much more effective at killing) Societies were much richer, could fund war for much longer: european states increasing powers with respect to society. Able to borrow money far beyond the annual budget, ration food, etc. Leaders failed to appreciate modern technologies that could be sued for war, did not expect the war to reach the level that it did (much longer and more devastating than any other war) Germany rapidly industrialized, not satisfied with its existing position of power. Germany wants its own empire for a source of raw materials. Looks back at prussian frederick the greats" aggressive imperialism policy. Later leaders aggressive action (taking of alsace, etc. )
