There were three main causes leading up to World War 1, but it wasn't until June 28, 1914 the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand triggered World War 1 which began on July 28, 1914.
The main causes leading to World War 1 were: The Rise of Nationalism, Build-up of Military might, and system of military alliances. Europe avoided major wars in the 100 years before world War 1 began. In the 1800s, nationalism swept across the continent that help bring about the Great War. Nationalism led to the creation of two new powers - Italy and Germany - through the uniting of several small states.…