Why did German leaders support Austria-Hungary's ultimatum to Serbia and its subsequent declaration of war in the wake of the assassination of Archduke Francis Ferdinand in June 1914?
A They hoped their support would immediately push Britain, France, and Russia to declare war on Serbia and crush a potential Balkan uprising
B They hoped to keep France, Britain, and Russia out of the war, ensuring a short conflict that would give them new territory and help consolidate conservative rule in Germany
C They saw the potential war as an opportunity to distract European militaries on the continent, allowing Germany to expand its overseas empire without major conflict
D They thought the coming war would bring substantial new income to the German armaments industry and give a much-needed boost to the German economy