Forces of instability: Balkan nationalism and its significance for Austria-Hungary and Russia; militarism and the position of the German army in the Second Reich; the arms and naval races; military plans
Several forces made Europe dangerously unstable before 1914. Balkan nationalism, military build-ups, arms races, and rigid war plans all pushed the Great Powers closer to conflict.
Real World
By 1914, Germany had built a fleet of 17 dreadnoughts to challenge British naval supremacy, triggering a naval arms race that cost both nations billions and deepened mutual suspicion.
Exam Focus
When evaluating which force was most destabilising, use comparative language ('more significant than') and support with precise evidence.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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