The primary country blamed for starting World War I was Germany. Although the immediate trigger was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria by a Serbian nationalist, Germany was accused of having supported and encouraged Serbian nationalism and of having been ultimately responsible for the conflict. This allegation was based on the notion of German militarism and expansionism, which had been growing for several decades prior to the war. Germany's role in the war was highlighted by the Allies, particularly France and Britain, who held Germany responsible for the devastation and loss of life caused by the conflict.