Austria-Hungary Was To Blame For The First World War

Throughout the past half-century, historians have generally agreed that German decisions and policies were solely to blame for the start of the world war in 1914. This notion has been left relatively unquestioned, although, contemporary research has begun to reconsider who is at fault for the events leading up to the First World War. 4 trends have begun to emerge while discussing the guilt of Germany, as well as other European powers. Firstly, a lack of emphasis has been placed on Austria-Hungary’s policies. Secondly, long-term factors and the international political climate of the time have largely been ignored. Third, the importance of alliance systems and diplomacy has been disregarded in most historical texts. Finally, it is important to consider the importance of human agency.

Austria-Hungary has historically tried to pass blame onto Germany; however, it is evident that the Austro-Hungary government and military needed no convincing to go to war in 1914. From a military standpoint, war was seen as a political and strategic necessity. Similarly, from a political perspective the government prematurely ready for war. Although, Austria was prepared to start a war it’s unclear whether or not Austrian leadership would have deemed military action in Serbia necessary had it not been for the

Germany evidently disregarded attempts to reach diplomatic de-escalation with other European powers, especially Britain. All of the major European powers were faced with suspicion and paranoia of each other and feared the possibility of external invasion. The triple entente was reluctant in allowing Germany to expand and reach its full potential, which may have led to their defensive attitude and offensive policies. Despite this, Germany was hungry for war and international history fails to explain exactly why the war broke