Why did the countries of europe believe that alliances would guarantee peace

Created a check and balance system.

Alliances were created in reaction to fears of growing military. There was an assumption that no one would attack a country knowing other countries would come to the aid of their alliance. World War I proved a small incident with alliances in place would lead to a deadly war. 

The correct answer is Stephen King.

King, an American author of horror literature, was awarded the 2003 Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters.