“The decline of Ottoman power was the main reason for the Ottoman Empire’s entry into the First World War.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the decline of Ottoman power was the main reason for the empire’s entry into the First World War. Candidates may agree, partially agree or disagree with the statement. They may refer to the constriction of Ottoman territory in the decades preceding the war, and the hope that military victory would allow the empire to recover lost lands. They may suggest that the war may have been perceived as an opportunity for the empire to redeem its pride, especially after the humiliation of the First Balkan War. Candidates may note that Ottoman weakness was also a factor in her decision to ally with Germany, which was viewed as the strongest European power. The Ottomans hoped that German assistance would help strengthen its army. Candidates may mention factors other than Ottoman decline, such as the important strategic location of the empire which increased the likelihood that it would be drawn into any conflict, however they must deal with the main issue in the question.