The statement that best explains how imperialism led to World War I is: "Countries competed for control over territory around the world."
Imperialism heightened tensions among European powers as they vied for dominance in various regions, leading to rivalries and conflicts over colonies. These competitions not only strained diplomatic relations but also contributed to the formation of alliances, as nations sought to protect their interests and expand their empires, setting the stage for the larger conflict of World War I.