Understanding the Causes of Militarism in the Modern World

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
7 questions
~14 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores different interpretations of the role of militarism as a cause of conflict in the modern world, encouraging students to compare historian views and evaluate their arguments.

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Understanding the Causes of Militarism in the Modern World

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Interpretations of Militarism as a Cause of Conflict

Historian A: John Smith – Economic Perspective

"Historian John Smith argues that militarism was driven primarily by economic interests. He suggests that nations expanded their armies and navies to secure resources and trade routes, which in turn increased national wealth and economic power. Smith emphasizes that military buildup was motivated by economic competition, with countries seeking to protect their economic interests and gain advantages over rivals. He points to the arms race as a reflection of economic ambitions, where military strength became a means to secure economic dominance."

Historian B: Mary Johnson – Social Perspective

"Historian Mary Johnson contends that militarism was rooted in social factors, such as national pride, cultural values, and societal pressures. She argues that societies glorified military strength, fostering a culture that celebrated war and heroism. Johnson highlights the influence of social institutions, including schools and media, in promoting militaristic values. She believes that this social environment created a climate in which countries felt compelled to expand their militaries to uphold national identity and social cohesion."

B

Questions

1.
Summarize Historian A's view on why militarism increased before the war. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Summarize Historian B's view on the reasons behind militarism. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
3.
Compare the two historians' perspectives and explain why they differ. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
4.
Which historian's interpretation do you find more convincing? Explain your reasoning. (5 marks)
[5 marks]
5.
Outline the impact of militarism on the build-up to World War I. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
6.
Explain how social factors could have influenced countries to build up their militaries. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
7.
Compare how economic and social perspectives explain the rise of militarism. Which do you find more convincing? (6 marks)
[6 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet