another side. Each group wanted to dominate over the world and control as many
colonies and markets as possible which led to the occurrence of world wars.

he First World War began in 1914. It was really a World War because almost all
the countries (imperial nations and their colonies) of the world took part in the
war. China, Japan on the East and the US on the West took part in the war. The First
World War ended in 1918. Britain and France defeated Germany and its allies in the
war.

Aggressive Nationalism

The ideology of nationalism was a positive impulse. Many newly formed
modern nations were created in Europe because of people’s strong feeling of
nationalism. It was also the force behind the unification of Germany and Italy.
But this ideology created pride in these nations and hatred against the neighbouring
countries.

Italian Fascism and National Socialism of German Nazis were the other forms
of aggressive Nationalism in destructive mode from 1923. Fascists promoted
aggressive nationalism and the image of victorious Germany ruling over the world.
They also mobilized the Germans against the other nations of Europe.

Imperialism

With the growth of industrial capitalism, European countries like Britain,
Germany and US needed to access raw materials and markets for their products.
They wanted to invest their growing capital in the colonies. Thus, by the end
of the 19th century there was a race for colonies between the European powers. The
newly emerged industrial powers (like Germany and Italy) wanted to re-divide the
colonies but the old industrial powers were not ready for this. This created a lot
of tension often leading to wars.