What were the causes of the First World War and which, in your opinion, was the most important? Give examples to prove your point. What might European diplomats have done differently between 1880 and 1914 to avoid the Great War? What were some of the more immediate causes of the war between 1912-1914? For example, how did developments in the Balkans lead to the outbreak of war? Finally, why did everyone think the war would be over within six months? Explain.