Imperialism fueled competition among European powers for colonies and resources, leading to territorial disputes and rivalries. Nationalism heightened tensions as countries sought to assert their political and cultural dominance, often in opposition to each other. Militarism led to an arms race as countries built up their military capabilities, increasing the potential for conflict. The alliance system created a web of entangling alliances, with countries committed to mutual defense, increasing the likelihood of conflict spreading across multiple countries. Ultimately, these factors combined to create a volatile and tense international environment that eventually erupted into the devastating conflict of World War I.
