Introduction Several intertwined factors are believed to have forced Europe into war. In particular, the war was mainly triggered by conflict and hostility that had plagued the region over the years. The major super powers in Europe had been involved in diplomatic clashes due to power shifts that had been witnessed in the region since 1867. This resulted in tensions in such areas as the Balkan region. The nations were scrambling for power and territory and this resulted in conflicts among the powerful nations. This was particularly reinforced by the signing of treaties and the formation of alliances [1] Reasons for the War Militarism The causes of the war dates as far back as before 1914 and tension was so high among the various European nations that the continent only needed a little triggering to plunge into war. There are several reasons why this war was inevitable. By then most of the countries exercised a lot of militarism as it was perceived as a way of enhancing a nation’s foreign policy. All the European countries were militaristic with Germany and Austria-Hungary being the best examples. By 1914, the European countries had well built armies and the navy forces with large number of soldiers and warships. Countries competed to upgrade their military forces in order to ensure balance of power. Britain and German for instance were in conflict over the sizes of their armies in 1900 with the German leader at that time proclaiming that he needed to secure a place in the sun for Germany so that the sun’s rays may shine on his country. Kaiser Wilhelm therefore decided to build very powerful warships for his mission to conquer the world. Effects Britain had always had the notion that it was the ruler of the sea waves and as such, efforts by Germany to challenge her position were perceived as a threat and challenge to its superiority. This was also seen as a threat to the overseas colonies of Britain. Britain therefore decided to build more dreadnought battle ships given that the Germans had refused to limit their military build-up. The public was also at the forefront in demanding for more of the building of more ships. Most of these European countries also managed to train extra men apart from those in the military for them to support their armies if the need arose. By 1914, Germany had a large and powerful army. There was however a cause for worry given that the Russian army was also growing at an alarming rate. It came to the realization of the German generals that within a short time, defeating Russia would not be an easy task. [2] Alliances The formation of alliances was also another way by which the European nations sought to enhance their protection. Bismarck had for instance formed an alliance with Russia although this was overturned by Kaiser Wilhelm who mainly focused on the alliance between Germany and Austria-Hungary. Italy later joined the due to form the Triple Alliance. This alarmed other countries and France added Russia as its ally in 1894. France also decided to develop friendship with Britain and the two countries agreed to work together in 1904, in an alliance known as the Entente Cordiale. This was more of a friendship agreement than