... to her ally', would stand by Austria even should the Serbian conflict lead to war between Austria and Russia." (Fischer p.53)1 Fischer believes this "blank cheque" was strategically given in order to give the Austrians the confidence needed to attack the Serbians after the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand. Fisher's statement also shows that Germany was prepared for war and knew that giving Austria such confidence would lead to a conflict. Fischer also states that by using the assassination as an opportunity to begin a war, Germany was able to push Austria into declaring war on Serbia. Many believe that Germany deliberately pushed Austria, who at the time did not really take much action after the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, towards an aggressive stance for their own benefit. This would eliminate Germany from appearing as the instigators but rather an ally who supported a friend. Fischer also explains that the alliance ...

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