Even though Wilhelm, the Crown Prince of Germany, once said: "Diplomatic dexterity can and certainly should delay the conflict for a time and sometimes unravel the difficulties." The authorities must be and will be fully aware of their enormous responsibility at this serious time of decision. They must make it clear to their own minds that the gigantic conflagration, once ignited, cannot be extinguished so easily or so quickly. (Doc B) This can be seen as alliances help resolve tensions and ensure peaceful times. World War I was driven by mutual alliances instead of being driven by the best interests of the nation or country as it should have been. Because General von Moltke [army chief] said: I believe war is inevitable; war, the sooner the better. But we should do more to lobby to prepare the popularity of a war against Russia. The Kaiser supported this. [Navy chief] Tirpitz said the navy would prefer to see the big fight postponed for a year and a half. "(Doc E) Which can be interpreted as how some regions wanted to go to war because it would ultimately be better for the country if it wins, it also has the opportunity for countries to expand. And for example, in the event that one of the High Contracting Parties finds itself at war with a fourth Great Power, the other two will maintain benevolent neutrality towards it and devote their efforts to localizing the conflict. Alliance, while good overall, also drags other countries into each other's internal affairs. For E...... middle of paper ......e of their nation, unlike us. showed General Friedrich von Bernahrdi when describing the situation of the triple alliance "Their close union is also due to national historical reasons and political conditions" (Doc C) Showing us how not all alliances were made for defense. and how some were done for the true betterment of each country. During this period, and even during World War I, alliances were formed for the security they concealed, and not generally for the betterment of the nation or country as a whole. Ultimately, I think this is wrong since no real benefit comes from it. Overall, the factors that caused World War I were Alliance militarism and the assassinations of the Archduke and his wife. While not the best cause for fighting, many countries engaged due to intact alliances with other countries and not for the good of the country as a whole..