How did militarism contribute to long-term causes of war?

Militarism contributed to long-term causes of war by escalating tensions and creating an arms race between nations.

Militarism, the belief in maintaining a strong military capability and readiness to use it aggressively to defend or promote national interests, has been a significant factor in the long-term causes of war. It has often led to an arms race, where nations compete to acquire more and better weapons than their rivals. This competition can escalate tensions, as each nation feels threatened by the other's military power and feels the need to increase its own in response.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, for example, the major European powers were engaged in a naval arms race. Britain, as the world's leading naval power, felt threatened by Germany's rapid naval expansion under Kaiser Wilhelm II. This led to a cycle of escalation, with each country building more and larger warships in an attempt to outdo the other. This arms race created a climate of fear and suspicion, which was a significant factor in the outbreak of World War I.

Militarism can also contribute to the long-term causes of war by creating a culture that glorifies war and the military. This can make it easier for leaders to mobilize public support for war, and harder for them to pursue peaceful solutions to conflicts. For example, in the years leading up to World War II, militaristic propaganda in Japan helped to whip up public support for the country's aggressive expansionist policies in Asia.

Furthermore, militarism can lead to a situation where the military becomes a powerful political force in its own right, with the ability to influence or even dictate government policy. This can make it more likely that a country will go to war, as the military may push for aggressive policies that serve its own interests. For example, in the years leading up to World War I, the military leadership in Germany played a significant role in shaping the country's foreign policy, pushing for a more aggressive stance towards other European powers.

In conclusion, militarism can contribute to the long-term causes of war in several ways. It can escalate tensions between nations, create a culture that glorifies war, and give the military undue influence over government policy.