International Relations with Other Powers
History: AQA A Level The British Empire, topic 2.2.4
International Relations, 1890-1914
By the end of the 19th century, an alliance system was emerging across Europe.
Building alliances
- In the run-up to World War 1, European states became more intertwined with one another because of the signing of alliances and treaties.
- e.g. Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy signed the Triple Alliance in 1882.
- e.g. France and Russia formed the Franco-Russian Alliance in 1892.
Britain and alliances
- In response to the alliances of the late 19th century, Britain was initially torn as it was in conflict with both sets of alliances.
- However, eventually, Britain also became involved in the alliance system.
- In 1904, Britain signed the Entente Cordiale with France.
- In 1907, the Triple Entente was formed between Britain, France, and Russia.
Britain's navy vs army
- Britain had historically prioritised the Navy over the Army because of the geographic spread of the British Empire and the importance of trade to the British Empire.
- However, in the Boer War, the British Army was shown to be very weak. Up to one-third of conscripts were unfit for military duty because of things like malnutrition. This led to the introduction of Free School Meals in British schools after 1906.
Anglo-German rivalry
- Anglo-German rivalry increased in the late 19th century. This manifested in industry, naval power, and imperial power in Africa.
- Germany's challenge in Africa is seen, for example, in the Jameson raid and Kruger's telegram.
Shifting priorities
- After 1912, Britain began to deploy more of its military ships in the North Sea and closer to Britain, instead of in the Indian Ocean, Caribbean and Mediterranean.
- This was a clear signal of deprioritisation of the British Empire.
Test yourself on International Relations with Other Powers
What European state alliances were formed in the late 1800s?