Why did eurpean nations form alliances 1914?

European nations formed alliances in 1914 primarily for mutual defense and to balance power on the continent. The rise of nationalism, militarism, and Imperialism heightened tensions, prompting countries to seek security through partnerships. Alliances such as the Triple Alliance and the Triple Entente aimed to deter aggression from rival nations, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of World War I when these alliances were activated following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.