Overview
Did the alliance system ultimately prevent the localization of the conflict?
How binding were the commitments the Great Powers had made to each other? Were there really two rival camps in Europe? What role did secrecy play in striking these alliances?
Was the "old diplomacy" of hushed agreements behind closed doors unknowingly and inextricably committing governments to strategic plans, which would seal their fate?
Books
The Great Powers and the European States System 1814-1914 by ISBN: 9781317867913Publication Date: 2014-01-14Bridge and Bullen offer an analysis of the functioning of the European states system between the defeat of Napoleon in 1814 and the outbreak of the First World War. This is a useful reading to get a better understanding of diplomacy and the power dynamic in Europe before 1914. The book also includes well-designed maps illustrating the many contested frontiers, both in Europe and those involving colonial territories. Particularly useful chapters are the introduction, "The Character of International Relations 1814-1914", chapter eight, "Unstable Equilibrium 1895-1911," and chapter nine, "Polarization and War 1911-1914".
An Improbable War? The Outbreak of World War I and European Political Culture Before 1914 by ISBN: 9781845452759Publication Date: 2007-10-01The focus of this book is on the connection between the Great War and the long 19th century, explored from political, military, and cultural perspectives. It questions many received ideas about the war's causes, especially the notion of "inevitability." The contributors demonstrate diverse methods and opinions, which offers valuable insight into the ongoing debate over the origins of the war in scholarly research. Notable essays within the volume are Paul W. Schroeder's "Stealing Horses to Great Applause" and Samuel R. Williamson Jr.'s essay on the Habsburg Monarchy and Austria-Hungary. Schroeder makes a compelling argument that the major European powers progressively failed to make the balance of power on the continent a priority and, thus, failed to recognize its diplomatic requirements. Williamson's essay synthesizes many of his previously acclaimed writings on the inner workings of the Austria-Hungarian ruling elite.
Articles
Kann, R. A. (1973). Dynastic Relations and European Power Politics (1848-1918). The Journal of Modern History, 45(3), 387–410.
Kahn explores the connections between royal families across Europe and their influence on European power politics. He argues that personal connections between monarchs influenced diplomatic relations, political decisions, and public perception and studies how this influence changed with the shift from royal absolutism to more constitutional and representative forms of government. The study also delves into the influence of individual monarchs, such as Queen Victoria, Tsar Nicholas I, and Kaiser Wilhelm II, on European power politics based on their personal backgrounds and perceptions of other rulers. Kahn's article offers a different perspective on 19th-century international relations, which is interesting to read alongside the more frequent analysis of the European international system, based on balance of power theory.
Schroeder, P. W. (1986). The 19th-Century International System: Changes in the Structure. World Politics, 39(1), 1–26. https://doi.org/10.2307/2010296
Schroeder discusses the changes in the international system during the 19th century, focusing on the characteristics of the equilibrium established in 1815. He argues that the 19th-century international system faced unique challenges and problems, such as ensuring security and status for great powers, insulating Europe from external conflicts, and reconciling smaller states' independence with great powers' ambitions. As a result, the new set of rules, practices, and constraints that shaped the dynamics of European international politics during this period differentiated it from the balance of power of the 18th century. This article provides a detailed analysis of 19th-century international relations and it is recommended if you are looking to gain a better understanding of the factors which permitted a century of relative stability and diplomatic successes.