Learning module:
First World War Defining Moments, 1914–1918
Investigation 1: The causes of the First World War
1.2 Should Australia go to war if… ?
We know that Australia, and many other nations, went to war in 1914. Why did this happen?
This is a big question. Below are some activities to help you start thinking about why nations go to war.
1. Imagine that you are in charge of the government of Australia today. Below are eight situations that might result in Australia going to war. What would you choose to do in each situation?
2. Discuss your answers and explain your reasons for each decision. What do you think are the main reasons for deciding whether or not to go to war?
3. The situations outlined in the table above illustrate some of the principles behind why different countries chose to go to war in 1914. Looking at your answers above, which of these (if any) are therefore principles or reasons why you would support a nation going to war?
