Examine the nationalist tensions emerged in the Balkan region by the end of nineteenth century.
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Model Answer
Nationalist Tensions in the Balkans (late 19th century):
- Geographical-ethnic complexity: The Balkans comprised modern-day Romania, Bulgaria, Albania, Greece, Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, etc., inhabited by diverse Slavic peoples — making it a region of great ethnic variation.
- Romantic nationalism + Ottoman decline: The spread of romantic nationalism, combined with the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire, made the region explosive. Subject nationalities broke away one by one, claiming independence based on historical identity.
- Fierce inter-state rivalry: Balkan states were jealous of each other, each trying to gain territory at the expense of others.
- Big power rivalry: Russia, Germany, England, and Austro-Hungary competed to extend control over the Balkans, countering each other's influence.
- Result: These tensions led to a series of wars in the region and ultimately triggered the First World War.
Source: Chapter 1 — Nationalism in Europe, Section 6: Nationalism and Imperialism
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Explanation
Examiners expect 5 distinct, labelled points for a 5-mark answer of this type. Cover: ethnic diversity, Ottoman disintegration, romantic nationalism, inter-Balkan rivalry, and big-power rivalry — these are the five threads explicitly mentioned in the textbook passage. Avoid writing a flowing essay; crisp points score better. The cause-effect link (→ WWI) makes a strong concluding line.