The Origins of World War I - France Since 1871 - Lecture 13

Explore the complex origins of World War I in this 46-minute lecture from Yale University's "France Since 1871" course. Delve into the diplomatic history that led to improbable alliances forming in the early 20th century, including the ideological compromise between France and Russia. Examine the imperial machinations, popular imagination, and growing nationalist sentiment that contributed to the conflict. Analyze the tangled maps of empire, shifting alliances of great powers, and the British Empire's role on the world stage. Investigate mounting tensions in Alsace-Lorraine, focusing on the Saverne Crisis, and discuss war expectations and enthusiasm. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted factors that culminated in one of history's most significant global conflicts.