Why did socialists split after World War One? National rivalries (such as between the French and Germans) divided them. Some hope to forge political alliances with fascists, while others did not. Some believed in revolutionary change while others believed in democratic reform. Some sought to expand the role of government in society, while others sought to limit it.

Overall, the different socialist groups had divergent opinions on how to navigate the post-war world and achieve their goals, leading to significant internal divisions and ultimately splitting the movement.