How did imperialism lead Germany into World War I? thanks for help !

http://education.yahoo.com/reference/dictionary/entry/imperial

http://www.cusd.chico.k12.ca.us/~bsilva/projects/great_war/causes.htm

Great Britian, France, and Germany were all in need of markets for goods, and the war was fought largely over control of markets.

Imperialism played a significant role in leading Germany into World War I. Here are the steps that explain this connection:

1. Background of Imperialism: By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, European powers, including Germany, sought to establish colonies and expand their global influence. Imperialism was driven by economic interests, competition among nations, and the desire for prestige and power.

2. German Economic Expansion: Germany, as a latecomer to imperialism, was eager to acquire colonies and resources to sustain its growing industries and population. The government encouraged the expansion of German influence abroad to secure raw materials and new markets for its products.

3. Naval Arms Race: As part of its ambition to become a global power, Germany aimed to challenge the dominant naval force of the time, Great Britain. This led to a naval arms race between the two countries, which strained diplomatic relations and escalated tensions.

4. Moroccan Crisis: In 1905 and 1911, Germany challenged French control over Morocco, a North African territory. These incidents heightened international tensions and worsened relations between Germany and other European powers, notably France and Britain.

5. Alliance System: Germany's imperial aspirations threatened the existing balance of power in Europe. In response, other major European powers, such as France, Russia, and the United Kingdom, formed alliances to counter potential German aggression. These alliances created a complex web of competing interests, making war more likely.

6. Archduke Franz Ferdinand's Assassination: The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in June 1914 by a Bosnian Serb nationalist provided the spark that ignited World War I. Germany's support for Austria-Hungary and its aggressive stance influenced the course of events afterward.

7. German Blank Check: After the assassination, Germany issued a "blank check" of unconditional support to Austria-Hungary, affirming that they would back any actions the Austrians took against Serbia. This unconditional support emboldened Austria-Hungary and increased the chances of an escalation into a full-blown war.

8. Outbreak of War: Following the assassination and diplomatic tensions, Austria-Hungary issued an ultimatum to Serbia, which eventually led to war. Germany backed Austria-Hungary, declaring war on Russia, France, and later the United Kingdom, thus initiating World War I.

In summary, Germany's pursuit of imperialism, its desire for colonies and influence, the naval arms race, and its challenging actions contributed to growing tensions among European powers. These tensions, combined with the existing alliance system and triggered by the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, ultimately led to the outbreak of World War I.

Imperialism played a significant role in leading Germany into World War I. Here's an explanation of how it happened:

1. Increased competition among European powers: During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, European nations engaged in a race for overseas colonies. This competition led to tensions and rivalries among the major powers, including Germany. As Germany sought to expand its influence and acquire colonies, it clashed with other imperial powers like Britain and France.

2. Naval arms race: Germany, under Kaiser Wilhelm II, adopted an aggressive naval policy to challenge British naval supremacy. A strong navy was seen as a symbol of power and a crucial tool for protecting and expanding colonies. This led to an arms race between Germany and Britain, heightening tensions and increasing the likelihood of conflict.

3. Alliance system: In an effort to ensure security and protect their colonial interests, major European powers formed alliances. Germany formed an alliance with Austria-Hungary and Italy, known as the Triple Alliance. However, a rival alliance, the Triple Entente, consisting of Britain, France, and Russia, emerged in response. This divided Europe into two hostile camps.

4. Diplomatic tensions and the spark of war: The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in June 1914 by a Serbian nationalist set off a chain of events. Germany, as Austria-Hungary's ally, supported its call for retribution against Serbia. As tensions escalated, a series of political and military mobilizations took place, culminating in the declaration of war by Austria-Hungary and Germany against Serbia and the subsequent involvement of the alliance systems.

In summary, Germany's imperial ambitions, naval rivalry, alliance system, and the broader competition for colonies all contributed to the tensions that ultimately led to the outbreak of World War I.