European historyLesson 1 of 5 in the course The War to End All Wars

European Alliances, Imperial Rivalries, and Prewar Military Planning

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Europe entered the twentieth century after decades of relative stability, but that calm rested on a changing balance of power. This lesson explores the diplomatic order established after the Napoleonic Wars and the short conflicts that helped transform Europe.

After the Napoleonic Wars, European leaders worked to prevent any one country from dominating the continent. The Concert of Europe was an informal understanding among major powers to preserve the status quo and manage disputes. It helped maintain a balance of power while Europe experienced political change, including the spread of more liberal ideas.

All flashcards

What was the Concert of Europe?
An informal understanding among major powers to manage disputes and preserve the post-Napoleonic status quo and balance of power.
What followed Prussia’s victory over Austria in 1866?
Prussia annexed several German states and became the dominant German power; Austria was excluded from German affairs.
What were France’s losses after the Franco-Prussian War?
France paid an indemnity and occupation costs and ceded Alsace and Lorraine.
What did Bismarck seek through Germany’s alliances?
To protect German leadership, deter attack, limit rivals’ influence, and preserve the balance of power.
Why did Britain and Germany compete to build stronger navies?
Navies protected overseas trade, colonies, supply routes, and strategic interests.

Quiz questions

  1. Which countries belonged to the Triple Alliance in the early twentieth century?Answer: Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy.
  2. What did the 1894 treaty between France and Russia require if either country was attacked?Answer: The other would provide military support, and each would mobilize if the other did.
  3. What was a major result of the First Moroccan Crisis of 1905?Answer: Britain and France strengthened their friendship rather than being divided.
  4. Why did the HMS Dreadnought’s 1906 launch affect naval competition?Answer: Its design made earlier battleships seem obsolete.
  5. What sequence did the Schlieffen Plan envision in a two-front war?Answer: Attack France through Belgium first, then turn east against Russia.

Based on World History Volume 2, from 1400 by Ann Kordas, Ryan J. Lynch, Brooke Nelson, Julie Tatlock (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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