Ideas for a game about Causes of WWI?

[SiniShadow]

 

I wanted to start off by apologizing if this isn't the right place for this question. Also, I am not a member of BSA, but rather a Polish Boy Scout in America.

 

I am a Troop leader and the theme for this year for the troop is World War I. The kids in my troop are aged 11-14. I wanted to do a history lesson next week about the causes of the War including: Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, and Nationalism. I know that the best way to teach is through games, and I was wondering if you guys had any ideas for a game about the causes of the war? I was thinking of explaining the messy and entangling alliances( Germany allied with Austria, Russia with Serbia), by doing a sort of variation on the "Human Knot", where a group has to hold hands and untangle themselves. However, I think this might be slightly too simple. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Haukehaien]

Diplomacy is one of the best simulations of the leadup to WWI. It can take a VERY long time to play, but if you can take the time and work with the boys, it's really a good way to look at it.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplomacy_(game)