Events in Europe (1870–1914) Related to the First World War
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Unification of Germany
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Germany was unified on 18 January 1871 at the Palace of Versailles.
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William I became Emperor, and Bismarck became Chancellor.
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France lost Alsace and Lorraine and paid 5 billion francs in reparations.
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Shifting Balance of Power
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Before 1871, major powers in Europe had equal strength.
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After unification, Germany became the most powerful nation in Europe.
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France and Russia formed a Dual Alliance to balance German power.
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Nationalism
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Nationalism caused conflicts in the Balkans.
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Balkan states wanted independence from the Turkish (Ottoman) Empire.
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Sultan Abdul Hamid II was unpopular due to repression and violence.
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Imperialism
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European powers competed for colonies in Africa and Asia.
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Germany wanted an overseas empire like Britain and France.
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This competition caused tension and led to increased military spending.
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Capitalism
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Industrialized nations wanted raw materials from colonies.
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This led to the scramble for Africa and Asia.
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Competition for resources increased rivalry among European nations.
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