Why Did Britain Go to War in 1914?

Some historians argue Britain’s entry being based solely on defence of Belgium, S.J. Lee for example arguing “The defence of a small and helpless state had an irresistible appeal”. However, it seems more likely looking at the threatened balance of the previous European set up that Britain was simply interested in keeping equality in power. The Germans were rising economically as well as in confidence; their two attempts at making France politically submissive in the Moroccan crises an example. Furthermore, despite amiable attempts by Britain to build bridges in Anglo-German relations and thus keep a balance, Germany would not accept her terms. It seems war was an inevitable occurrence as the growing tension between Germany and France took place. When Franz Ferdinand was shot on 28 June, 1914, war was sparked however this appears to be simply an excuse, not the reason. Similarly, Britain had various run-ins with Germany in the years preceding the war; however these are not alone responsible for her intervention beginning in August, 1914. Economic interests as well as domestic issues could too be included in the equation, however filled with the idea that “it would all be over by Christmas”, Britain’s strongest argument was to retain the balance between the different states.