Examine the contribution of diplomatic failure in July 1914 to the outbreak of the First World War.

The question requires that candidates consider the interrelationship between diplomacy and the outbreak of war in 1914. Candidates may examine the events of 1914 and argue that diplomatic failure during the July Crisis led to war. Others may examine longer-term causes as well. There may be reference to the unpalatable Austrian ultimatum, the Blank Cheque and the telegrams between Kaiser Wilhelm II and Tsar Nicholas II. There may also be an examination of Britain’s lack of clarity regarding the crisis, especially how far she would support France or keep promises to Belgium (Treaty of London). Other factors that led to war were the German desire for war before Russia had fully modernized her army. Candidates may refer to Austria also wanting a local war to weaken Serbia’s position in the Balkans. Other relevant interrelationships may be considered, for example that the Russian General Staff wanted full mobilization, leading to German mobilization and the implementation of the Schlieffen Plan. It could also be argued that the broader context of the Alliance system made war very likely and that the assassination of Franz Ferdinand was the “spark” that led to war. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be clearly presented and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the interrelationship between diplomatic failure in July 1914 and the outbreak of the First World War. This was a very popular question and there were some excellent responses. Some candidates were able to weigh successfully the importance of the events of July 1914 and of other factors in the outbreak of the First World War. However, weaker candidates did not have enough knowledge of the events of July 1914 and tended to make generalised statements about imperialism, militarism and nationalism.