Germany bears the vast bulk of the blame for the outbreak of WW1.

Essay by tim999High School, 12th gradeA+, July 2003

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Historians are debating over the origins of WWI and how much of it to blame on Germany. Historians such as Fischer lay all the blame on Germany. Fischer is criticized and is contrasted by the views of Remak, who criticizes Fischer from a European viewpoint, and the views of Ritter whom critics Fischer of misinterpreting and making incorrect conclusions about German responsibility for the war. The views of Schroeder also contrast with Fischer's thesis. Meanwhile, Taylor believed none of the major powers wanted to go to war and deterrents that failed to deter brought war along. Joll lists what he sees as important factors leading to war, in which all countries were subject to, and the internal environment of the country contributing to its' foreign policy. Fay lays blame divided on all European countries, either though inaction or action they contributed to the outbreak of WW1.

Fritz Fischer was responsible for creating debate on his questioning of German war guilt in the 1960's.

He argued that Germany and Germany alone was responsible for the Great War, as they continued expansionist aims to WW2 and pursued policies to gain world domination, which together increased tensions. It was his view that any localized war in Europe presented the risk of a general war. Fischer says that Germany, confident in her military superiority, took the risk with Russia and France and therefore can be held responsible. He also created havoc among historians when he said Germany actually desired war.

Sidney Bradshaw Fay states that none of the Powers wanted European war, but it broke out on huge scales anyway. He seems not to blame the outbreak of war on a single country, yet lays responsibility on all the European countries, either by action or inaction. He strongly insists that Germany and her allies...