Alliances

What were the alliances in the First World War?

There were two pre-First World War alliances. The Triple Entente consisted of Britain, Russia and France. The Triple Alliance was formed by Germany, Austria-Hungary and Italy.

How did alliances lead to the First World War?

In order to achieve security, countries often formed alliances to protect themselves. Tensions between alliances meant that, when Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia in 1914, others felt obligated to join the conflict.