Q. How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of balance of power?

Model Answer:

First World War

The First World War was indeed significantly influenced by the concept of balance of power, but it would be an oversimplification to claim it was fought “essentially” for this reason alone. The balance of power played a crucial role, yet it was part of a complex web of factors that led to the outbreak of the war.

1. Balance of Power as a Key Factor:

• The pre-war European landscape was characterized by two major alliance systems: the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the Triple Entente (Britain, France, Russia).
• These alliances were formed primarily to maintain a balance of power and prevent any single nation from becoming too dominant.
• Germany’s rapid industrialization and military buildup in the late 19th and early 20th centuries threatened this balance, causing concern among other European powers.
• The arms race, particularly the naval competition between Britain and Germany, was a direct result of attempts to maintain power equilibrium.

2. Other Significant Causes:

• Nationalism: The rise of nationalist sentiments across Europe fueled tensions and territorial disputes.
• Imperialism: The scramble for colonial possessions led to conflicts between major powers.
• Militarism: The glorification of military power and the belief in the inevitability of war contributed to the conflict.
• Immediate trigger: The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in 1914 served as the spark that ignited the war.

3. Analysis of Balance of Power’s Role:

• The balance of power system, while intended to prevent war, paradoxically increased tensions and made conflict more likely.
• The rigid alliance system turned a local conflict into a continent-wide war, as nations were obligated to support their allies.
• Attempts to preserve balance through military buildup created an atmosphere of mutual suspicion and fear.

Conclusion:
The First World War resulted from a complex interplay of factors, with the balance of power being a crucial, but not exclusive, element. While its preservation was significant, other causes such as nationalism, imperialism, and militarism also played vital roles in the outbreak of this global conflict.