What did Europe look like before and after World War 1?

* Europe was a continent of great powers. The major powers were the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy, and Russia.

* The European powers were competing for power and influence in Europe and around the world.

* Nationalism was on the rise in Europe. This led to increased tensions between the European powers.

* The Balkan Peninsula was a region of particular tension. The Balkans were home to a number of ethnic groups, and there was a growing desire for independence from the Ottoman Empire.

After World War 1

* The European powers were defeated and weakened by the war.

* The United States emerged from the war as a major world power.

* The League of Nations was created in an attempt to prevent future wars.

* The Treaty of Versailles was signed between Germany and the Allied Powers. The treaty was very harsh on Germany, and it led to a great deal of resentment in Germany.

* The Russian Revolution led to the creation of the Soviet Union. The Soviet Union was a communist state, and it became a rival to the United States.

* The rise of fascism in Europe led to the outbreak of World War II.