1 The crisis in Morocco Colonialism was a constant source of conf lict. Morocco was one of the main focuses of this conf lict. Wilhelm II, the German emperor, spoke in favour of Moroccan independence, against French claims. To avoid a war in Europe, the Algeciras Conference (1906) was organised and France strengthened its control over Morocco. Later, Morocco became a Hispano-French protectorate. In exchange, Germany gained part of French Cameroon . However, after these agreements, the alliance between the UK and France was strengthened . This was the opposite of what Wilhelm II desired . The Eastern Question Another source of tension was the Eastern Question . The Ottoman Empire was collapsing, and Austria and Russia hoped to increase their inf luence in the region . (3) Russia supported the Slavic states (Serbia and Bulgaria) so that they would not come under Austro-Hungarian control . Austria wanted to expand along the coast of the Adriatic Sea . Between 1908 and 1913, three crises culminated in two political changes: Bosnia-Herzegovina was annexed by Austria-Hungar y. Most of Bulgaria was divided up among neighbouring countries. 2. Alliances in 1914 WORK WITH THE IMAGES Look at the map. Name the alliances that formed in Europe shortly before the outbreak of the First World War. Which countries made up each alliance in 1914? Analyse the caricature of Emperor Wilhelm II. – Is he dressed as a civilian or as a soldier? What objects are depicted? – W hat do you think the halo around his helmet means? – Think of a title for the caricature. Define: Triple Entente, Algeciras Conference, Eastern Question. Name the alliances that Bismarck formed. Analyse the objectives of Bismarck's foreign policy. Was Wilhelm II's foreign policy similar to Bismarck's? Explain what the Armed Peace was. K E Y Q U E S T I O N S 3. Caricature of European ambitions in the Balkans 27
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