The document provides historical context on the period leading up to World War 1. It discusses the growing international economic integration and interdependence between European nations from 1800-1914. It also notes rising nationalism and militarism in Europe as tensions increased between the two military alliances of the time, and the lack of international organizations that could prevent the outbreak of war. By 1914, a series of diplomatic crises and conflicts within the alliances over issues like the Balkans made major war more likely, despite an initial lack of realization that it would soon occur.