1. Impact of the First World War Flashcards
Why was it thought that the outbreak of war among European colonial powers would result in a potential risk of losing colonial rule in Africa?
Because there were fears that Africans would question the idea of paying obedience to colonists if they saw white men fighting each other
What idea were colonists appalled by?
The idea of Africans killing white soldiers
Why did colonists fear having African in their armies?
Because it would be dangerous to give them fighting experience and teach them how to use modern weaponry as it could be used against them
Who did Britain declare war on behalf of?
On behalf of its Empire
Why didn’t Britain expect to need soldiers from Empire?
Because they thought the war would be short and simple
How many men did colonies send to fight for the Empire during war?
Approximately 2.5 million
Who fought for Britain?
Indian and African troops along with troops from dominions
Dominions of Britain
New Zealand, Canada and Australia
ANZAC
Australia and New Zealand Army Corps
What did Empire supply Britain with during war?
Vital raw materials and food, playing major part in victory
British Prime Minister during WW1
Lloyd George
What did Lloyd George create in 1917? Why?
The Imperial War Cabinet to coordinate imperial military policy
Who was included in the Imperial War Cabinet?
Lloyd George and a number of politicians from ‘white dominions’ (E.g. Prime Minister of Canada, Austria and South Africa)
What did large numbers of Australians, New Zealanders and Canadians do when war was declared?
They rushed to join the armed forces, with great imperial patriotism
Impact of war for Australia, Canada and New Zealand (not to do with casualties)
Boosted sense of national identity, affecting relationships with Britain as desire for independence grew
What did Canada supply Britain with during war?
Munitions and wheat
Munitions
War equipment
What was introduced in New Zealand in 1916 and Canada in 1917?
Conscription (no choice but to sign up)
Who contributed the most soldiers out of the Empire?
India - 1.3 million
How much money did the Indian government contribute to Britain’s war effort in 1917?
£100 million
Where did Indians majorly contribute to fighting during war?
Middle East and Africa
How many Egyptian soldiers fought in Europe during war?
100,000
Black African/South African involvement in war
Not permitted to fight in Europe alongside British army but fought in African theatre against German-led forces
What were boys and girls in dominions brought up to feel towards Britain?
A strong sense of loyalty
