How Nationalism in the Balkans Contributed to the Outbeak of WW1 Nationalism in the Balkans helped contribute to the outbreak of WWI. Beginning in the late 19th century, the social unrest in the Balkan States became the focal point of many European powers. The Balkan peninsula was that of great importance due to its territorial and economic significance; however, the Balkan States consisted of many proud ethnic cultures who did not wish to be ruled …
showed first 75 words of 803 total

showed last 75 words of 803 total
…fought and lost which resulted in WWI. Although the Balkans were somewhat unimportant in relation to more powerful countries of the time, they managed to play an important part in the history of Europe through their determination. Within the tiny Balkan States, the nationalism of the early 19th century erupted into an ocean of patriotic fervor. Their desire helped bring them towards freedom; however, with independence came a lust for power and excess of patriotism.