Alliance System - Background to World War I

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Another way that these alliance systems made themselves known was in the war plans of the different countries. Though the alliances were not initially meant for war, they fostered military cooperation between the signatories. This was evident in the Dual Alliance, as the two militaries “exchanged letters and visits which served to build up an expectation that they would consult and act together to support each other in moments of crisis.” The two even had “shared planning and strategies.” Opposing this bloc, the Triple Entente was also cooperating. Even though it was primarily aimed at defense, “within two years of signing the agreement of April 1904, plans were being made for common military action against Germany.” As a result of this cooperation and strengthening of ties, the two alliances were beginning to be viewed by the other as a cohesive group. Therefore, expectations began to grow about how the system would work: it was believed that confrontations would bring in alliance partners. Due to this sentiment, the Dual Alliance began to make promises about the course ...

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