.
The Dual Alliance was formed in 1879. It consisted of Austria-Hungary and Germany. Bismarck wanted to protect Austria-Hungary from possible Russian attacks, which would eventually occur. Germany needed Austria-Hungary as an ally because if ever Austria-Hungary fell under the control of Russia, the Russians would attack the Germans next. Germany used the alliance as a defensive method to their advantage. Two years later the Germans and Austro-Hungarians realized that Russia wouldn't attack them if they let Russia join their Alliance. In 1881, the three countries created the Three Emperor's League. This was an attempt to restore stability to Eastern Europe. This alliance was not successful because of Russian problems with the Bulgarians. That same year Austria-Hungary created a new alliance with Serbia called the Austro-Serbian Alliance. The two nations adapted this alliance to further limit possible Russian influence in the Balkans. In 1882, Austria-Hungary and Germany formed another Alliance. They brought Italy into the new alliance and they called themselves The Triple Alliance. This strategic alliance was formed for the purpose of stopping Italy from attacking Austria-Hungary in the event of war with Russia. Bismarck created a Reinsurance Treaty with Russia, which was an attempt to avoid this seemingly inevitable war. A year later Austria-Hungary and Germany kicked Russia out of their Alliance. They adopted Romania into a new Alliance and renamed it The Austro-German-Romanian Alliance. The alliance was created because of the perceived Russian intentions in the Balkans. Russia was beginning to see the many alliances against them. They started forming alliances with the remaining European countries to protect themselves in case of War. In 1894, Russia teamed up with France and they formed the Franco-Russian Alliance. This alliance was extremely influential. Germany renewed The Triple Alliance.
