The establishment of the modern welfare state in Europe was primarily prompted by the social and economic upheaval of the early 20th century, particularly following World War I, the Great Depression, and the interwar period. Governments began to recognize the necessity of providing social safety nets, which included unemployment insurance, old-age pensions, and healthcare, in order to ensure economic stability and social justice. The rise of labor movements and social democratic political parties also played a significant role in advocating for these reforms. The welfare state aimed to mitigate poverty, enhance citizens' quality of life, and promote social equity.