What motives underlay the "new imperialism"? How did it differ from previous forms of imperialism?

What led to the erosion of the liberal consensus in the late nineteenth century? What political ideologies emerged to challenge liberalism?

Compare and contrast late nineteenth-century politics in France and Great Britain. What trends do you note in both countries?

What led to Bismarck's downfall? What consequences did it have for German politics?

Describe the principal alliances in pre-World War I Europe. Why did Europe divide the way it did?

What factors created momentum toward war? What, if anything, did European statesmen do to reverse this trend?