... alliance: the Triple Entente of Britain, France and Russia. Italy emerged as a partner for the German, Austria-Hungary camp2, which completed the two sides. But this was not necessarily set in stone. By 1908, whilst the two sides could well have been sketched, they were by no means definite or final as Europe was still in terms of policy and material readiness, a long way from war. Therefore although by 1908 some of the longer-term causes may well have been established, the short-term triggers that finally cemented the onset of war were yet to occur. However, whilst in 1914 Europe seemed divided and edging ever closer to an inevitable showdown, the same cannot necessarily be said by 1908. Indeed many of the ultimate powers were not ready for a war in 1908 and crucially, at this time war was still trying to be avoided. However there were undeniable events and ...

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