Which of the following was NOT a cause of World War I?

• A. Alliances
• B. Isolationism
• C. Militarism
• D. Imperialism

Answer: (B)

Isolationism was not a cause of World War I. In fact, isolationism refers to a foreign policy approach where a country seeks to remain apart from the affairs or interests of other groups, especially the political affairs of other countries. Before World War I, many nations were actually engaged in a web of alliances and reciprocal defense agreements, which intensified international tensions leading up to the conflict.

On the other hand, alliances, militarism, and imperialism were significant contributing factors to the outbreak of the war. Alliances created a situation where a conflict between two countries could escalate to involve multiple nations. Militarism fueled an arms race and a belief in the necessity of military solutions to disputes. Imperialism led to competition among nations for colonies and resources, increasing rivalries that strained diplomatic relations. Together, these elements created a volatile international atmosphere that ultimately sparked World War I.