Causes of World War IThe underlying causes of World War I are militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism. Militarism is a policy aimed at glorifying military power and maintaining a standing army always ready for war. Alliance is a union or association formed between nations, especially between countries or organizations. Imperialism is a policy by which a strong nation seeks to dominate other countries politically, economically and socially. Nationalism is the belief that people should be loyal primarily to their nation. “Wouldn’t the end of war be the end of humanity? War is life itself. Nothing exists in nature, is born, only multiplies through combat. We must eat and be eaten so that the world can live. Only warlike nations have prospered; a nation dies as soon as it disarms. War is the school of discipline, sacrifice and courage (Document 1).” When people risk their lives and go to war, it means a strong nation will remain. The longer and stronger these nations become, the more they will rise...