Question

The map shows Europe’s two major alliances in place in 1905.

A map titled Europe, 1905. It shows that Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy make up the Triple Alliance. Great Britain, France, and Russia make up the Triple Entente.

Which best explains why these alliances created tensions in Europe?

Alliance members signed treaties to defend each other in times of war.
Alliance members feared attack and strengthened their economies.
Alliance members sought control over the Balkans and the Ottoman Empire.
Alliance members fought to control trade routes throughout the continent.

Answer 1

Alliance members signed treaties to defend each other in times of war.

Those binding defense agreements meant a local conflict could quickly draw in allied powers, turning small disputes into a general war (as happened in 1914 after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand).