what root cause of World War 1 caused nations to "glorify their militaries
ADOLPH HITLER
Good heavens, Ms. Davis, Adolf Hitler was a dictator during World War II.
Probably military defense alliances were the biggest cause of militarism before World War I.
http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1297196874
Sorry -- I inadvertently posted the wrong link.
http://americanhistory.about.com/od/worldwari/tp/causes-of-world-war-1.htm
The root cause of World War 1 is often attributed to a complex interplay of factors, including political alliances, competition for resources and territories, and rising nationalism leading to increased militarism. While it is difficult to pinpoint a single cause, one of the contributing factors that led to nations glorifying their militaries was the belief in the doctrine of "Militarism."
Militarism is a belief or desire by a government or people that a country should maintain a strong military presence and be prepared to use it aggressively to protect its national interests or expand its influence. In the years leading up to World War 1, many nations, particularly in Europe, experienced a surge in militarism due to various reasons.
One significant factor was the prevailing geopolitical environment characterized by intense rivalries and competition between European powers. The major powers, such as Germany, France, and Britain, were engaged in an arms race, striving to build up their armies and navies to gain a competitive edge over their adversaries. This militaristic competition was fueled by a broader sense of national superiority and the desire to project strength and dominance on the global stage.
Moreover, there was a prevailing belief in the effectiveness and invincibility of military power. The success of wars, such as the Franco-Prussian War and the Russo-Japanese War, created a perception that military might was not only necessary for defense but also a means to achieve political objectives. This perception, combined with nationalistic fervor, led many people and governments to glorify their militaries as symbols of national strength and pride.
Public opinion played a crucial role in this glorification. Governments and military leaders actively promoted and romanticized military culture, emphasizing heroism, duty, and sacrifice. Nationalistic propaganda, patriotic speeches, and grand military parades were employed to instill a sense of national pride and unity, while also fostering a collective belief that military power was indispensable for a nation's security and success. This glorification further entrenched the militaristic mindset in society.
It's important to recognize that while militarism and glorification of militaries played a role in World War 1, they were just one aspect of a complex web of causes that led to the outbreak of the conflict. Economic factors, political rivalries, and an intricate system of alliances all contributed to the escalation of tensions and ultimately, the war. Understanding these factors is crucial to comprehend the historical context and events that led to this devastating global conflict.