The First World War was not caused exclusively by Germany and Austria-Hungary, as established by the Treaty of Versailles. Germany is heavily responsible for much of the tense world situation in 1914, resulting from its aggressive policy of Weltpolitik, its attempts to have a superior navy, the Kaiser's poorly expressed personal remarks, and his attempts to break up the Triple Entente. However Germany was not solely responsible for the tension, many other events had happened outside of Germany's control, which had the same effect. Germany was also largely responsible for allowing the conflict in the Balkans to turn into a major European conflict, giving free rein to Austria-Hungary, although that was not their intent. However Germany should not be held responsible for implementing its Schlieffen plan once war seemed imminent, as it was militarily necessary. Although they had a great deal of responsibility in causing World War I, they should not hold the position alone as many other nations contributed or could have intervened. In the decades before the outbreak of war in 1914, Germany had been the main instigator of tension between the European powers. According to the policy of Weltpolitik (world politics), Germany wanted to play an important role in international affairs, participate in the pursuit of colonial territory, and spread German influence abroad. The other European powers all pursued their own imperialist policies and all competed for the same goals as Germany. When Germany tried to bully its way into colonies, other nations responded by forming alliances and isolating it. Weltpolitik achieved very few positive effects, managing instead to sour international relations and cause a great deal of... middle of paper... war and did things that accelerated the road to war. Bibliography" Bethman-Hollweg" http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/FWWbethmann.htm.Condon, Christopher. "Towards the modern age". South Melbourne: Macmillan Education Australia. 1995."Edward Grey" http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/FWWgrey.htmKeylar, William R. "World War I" http://www.encarta.com. 2003McAndrew, Mark and David Thomas and Philip Cummins. "The Great War and its aftermath 1914-1921". Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 2001.McDonough, Frank. "The Origins of World War I and World War II." Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 1997.Tuchman, Barbara W. "The Guns of August." London: Robinson. 1962.