1.  What were the underlying causes of WWI? The causes were because of imperialistic and nationalistic growth, the need for increase of land and power and because there would be no other way to settle the differences. 2.  What was the specific cause of WWI? the Archduke Ferdinand was assinated and the country wanted to get revenge. 3.  How did the soldiers react as they went off to war? Why? The soldiers were excited to go off to war and serve their country. They were considered heros than and it was increased nationalism that made them think it so.