How did nationalism cause World War I?

Nationalism is evident in a country exercising an extreme form of patriotism that is characterized by strong emphasis on advancing the nation’s interests. In this case, the country focuses its efforts on self-preservation and determination by protecting its values, political ideals, and religion, among other key aspects of the country.

Nationalism was a popular system in Europe prior the First World War. Most European countries believed in advancing their interests without considering regional interests that...

Nationalism is evident in a country exercising an extreme form of patriotism that is characterized by strong emphasis on advancing the nation’s interests. In this case, the country focuses its efforts on self-preservation and determination by protecting its values, political ideals, and religion, among other key aspects of the country.

Nationalism was a popular system in Europe prior the First World War. Most European countries believed in advancing their interests without considering regional interests that had an impact on internal affairs. Each country was focused on getting ahead and staying ahead. Nationalist rhetoric and military displays fueled the onset of World War I. Inflammatory stories were published and distributed widely by countries against their rivals. Most nations believed they were superior to their neighbors and rivals. Sustained confidence in military capabilities and inflammatory messages led to the growing sense of dangerous nationalism.

Slavic groups in the Balkans pushed for Pan-Slavism, a form of nationalism that hoped to achieve a greater Serbia for the Slavic people in the Balkans. The situation led to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, sparking the onset of the First World War.