A fragile peace
19th century was a period of optimism and prosperity
During this period, Bismarck, designed a complex system of alliances
Bismarckian system
Second system (1879-1882)
Third system (1887)
First system (1872)
Alliance between the Austro-Hungarian, German and Russian empires
Bismarck made a bilateral agreement with Austria-Hungary and Italy later joined them.
Signed the Reinsurance Treaty with Russia
After the fall of Bismarck, diplomatic blocs were formed in Europe.
The Triple Alliance
The Triple Entente
Germany, Austria-Hungary and Italy
Russia, France and Great Britain
Tension increased between the two blocks so each block invested in its military
Between 1912 and 1913, two Balkan wars broke out
Arms race or armed peace
Between 1905 and 1911, France and Germany fought a war over Morocco
