Technological Advances in WW1 Flashcards
What new weapon caused widespread devastation during WW1?
The machine gun, capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute.
How were airplanes used in WW1?
For reconnaissance, bombing missions, and aerial combat (“dogfights”).
What was the significance of tanks in WW1?
They helped break through enemy lines, especially during battles like the Somme.
What was the role of chemical weapons in WW1?
Gases like chlorine and mustard gas were used to incapacitate and kill soldiers in trenches.
How did submarines (U-boats) impact naval warfare?
German U-boats disrupted Allied supply lines, leading to food shortages and the sinking of ships like the Lusitania.
What was the importance of artillery in WW1?
Artillery caused most casualties, with long-range guns bombarding enemy positions.
What technological advancement improved communication on the battlefield?
Field telephones and radios allowed for better coordination between units.
How did flamethrowers affect trench warfare?
They were used to clear enemy trenches but were dangerous for the operators.
What was the purpose of barbed wire in WW1?
To slow enemy advances and protect trench systems from attack.
How did gas masks evolve during WW1?
Early improvised versions were replaced with more effective designs to protect against chemical weapons.
