Answer :
The rivalry between France and Germany, characterized by geopolitical ambitions, alliances, and nationalism, contributed to the outbreak of World War I.
The author argues that the historic rivalry between France and Germany was one of the leading root causes of World War I. According to the author's argument, this rivalry contributed to the outbreak of the war in several ways.
- Geopolitical Ambitions: France and Germany sought to expand their territories and establish dominance over one another. Both countries aimed to secure important strategic positions and resources, leading to conflicts and tensions.
- Alliances: The author mentions that Germany faced a hostile France to its west and Russia to its east. These geopolitical tensions resulted in the formation of opposing alliances, as countries sought to protect their interests and secure support in case of conflict.
- Nationalism: The author highlights that both France and Germany had cultivated deep-rooted nationalism. This intense national pride fueled a desire for revenge and a fear of domination, leading to a volatile atmosphere that eventually escalated into war.
Overall, the author argues that the historic rivalry between France and Germany, driven by geopolitical ambitions, alliances, and nationalism, played a significant role in the outbreak of World War I.
Final answer:
The historic rivalry between France and Germany contributed to the outbreak of World War I by creating a climate of suspicion and competition among the European powers.
Explanation:
The historic rivalry between France and Germany was one of the leading root causes of World War I. According to the author's argument, this rivalry contributed to the outbreak of the war by creating a climate of suspicion and competition among the European powers.
One piece of evidence is that the author mentions how the great powers of Europe, including France and Germany, were fundamentally suspicious of one another. This suspicion led to a constant race for power and alliances, as each country sought to outpace its rivals and secure its own security and prosperity.
Furthermore, the author states that France had cultivated a desire for revenge against Germany since the Franco-Prussian War, and Germany faced a hostile France and Russia. These tensions and rivalries ultimately led to the decision by each great power that war was inevitable.
