What was the cause of militarism leading to World War I?

Militarism refers to the belief in building up strong armed forces to prepare for war. This ideology contributed significantly to the outbreak of World War I as countries engaged in an arms race, expanding and modernizing their military capabilities. The preparation of large-scale armies created an environment of suspicion and competition among nations, leading them to prioritize military readiness over diplomatic negotiation. This buildup fostered an atmosphere where countries were more inclined to resort to military solutions rather than peaceful ones, ultimately escalating tensions that contributed to the war's outbreak.

The significance of militarism is underscored by the fact that many European nations, in anticipation of potential conflicts, stockpiled weapons and trained large numbers of troops. As alliances were formed, these massive standing armies not only fueled national pride but also increased the likelihood of conflict since countries felt ready to engage in warfare if necessary.

In contrast, other options do not directly illustrate the concept of militarism. While the building of alliances could be related, it generally stemmed from security concerns linked to militarism rather than being a direct cause of it. The expansion of overseas colonies and increased economic competition, although relevant factors at the time, primarily relate to imperial ambitions and economic interests rather than militarism itself.