Question

More than national pride, it was the greed to acquire colonies and thereby more money and resources that led to the First World War. Explain.

Answer 1

By the late 19th century, England and France had built large colonial empires in Asia and Africa. Other nations like Germany, Italy, Russia, and Japan, also wanted to expand their influence by acquiring colonies in these regions. These colonies were crucial because they provided raw materials for industries and markets for finished goods. Additionally, having colonies increased the power and prestige of these nations. This desire for colonies led to conflicts among countries, as each sought to dominate the same regions. This intense competition and struggle for resources played a significant role in causing tensions that eventually contributed to the outbreak of the First World War, even more than national pride.