Gilbert 80-98

Why did military planners always hope, and plan for, an immediate defeat when in reality that seems unrealistic?

Fay makes the argument that all European countries are equally responsible for war. Each nation had its own role in causing World War I, and the blame cannot be placed solely on Germany. Fischer on the other hand places the majority of the responsibility on Germany. It's difficult to place that much blame on Germany, however, because other countries were also at fault. Serbia, for example, knew about the plan behind the assassination of the Arch Duke, but didn't take action to stop it. This shows that Serbia wasn't against war causing actions. Russia and France came together to form an alliance, showing their preparation for war. Britain didn't take any preventative measures when it appeared as if war might break out. More European nations that just Germany are responsible for the war. Germany can be held a tad more responsible, though. Germany itself admitted to war causing actions, and prepared for war more than any other country. Germany's alliance with Austria-Hungary may have "dragged" them into the war, but if it weren't for previous actions by Germany, the war may not have started. Fay is correct in that a number of countries hold some responsibility in causing the war, but Germany is more responsible than any other nation.