Nationalism in the Balkans helped contribute to the outbreak of WWI. Beginning in the late 19th century, the social unrest in the Balkan States became the focal point of many European powers. The Balkan peninsula was that of great importance due to its territorial and economic significance; however, the Balkan States consisted of many proud ethnic cultures who did not wish to be ruled by any authority other than themselves. The unification of other countries and strong patriotism fueled the desires of the Slavs, Greeks, Montenegrins, Rumanians, and Bulgarians to gain independence and revenge for the occupation of their lands by the Turks. This revolution sparked by strong nationalistic views led to the second largest war in human existence.

Up until the early 20th century, the Balkan States were controlled by the Ottoman Empire; however, due to the decline of their power and prestige, the Balkan States found an opportunity to gain independence. The unification and formation of Italy and Germany as countries encouraged the Balkan revolt of 1875-8. The revolt spread like wild fire through the Balkan peninsula and with the aid of Russia, Turkey was defeated. Through t

his, the Balkan States: Serbia, Montenegro, and Rumania, gained increases in their land; thus, resulting in a stronger patriotic pride. Turkey, however, still controlled parts of the Balkans and this angered Balkan nationalism because they now felt capable of governing themselves.

Through the strong patriotism in the Balkan peninsula, wars were fought and lost which resulted in WWI. Although the Balkans were somewhat unimportant in relation to more powerful countries of the time, they managed to play an important part in the history of Europe through their determination. Within the tiny Balkan States, the nationalism of the early 19th century erupted into an ocean of patriotic fervor. Their desire helped bring them towards freedom; however, with independence came a lust for power and excess of patriotism.

The Balkan League was formed in 1912 by Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece and Montenegro. Their goal was the expulsion of the Turks from the Balkan peninsula. Due to the growing nationalism among these four countries, they sought power and prestige through the defeat of their old master. Turkey's difficulties with the Turkish revolution (1908-1909) and the Turko-Italian War(1911 - 1912),

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)