ABSTRACT

After Bismarck's fall from power in 1890 his policy of balance between Russia and Austria -Hungary was abandoned. Germany drew closer to Austria- Hungary and increasingly identified herself with Austria's Balkan aspirations; while extending her own interests in the Near East. Russia turned to France for diplomatic support, and soon evolved a military alliance and close economic links. Britain's agreements with France and Russia, although not binding alliances, laid the foundation for the Triple Entente of 1914