War Practices Flashcards
Sea
The war at sea
Purpose: control the seas and stop supplies getting to enemy
Example: the British pocket of Germany port, which stop supplies reach in. This was a crucial factor in Allied victory over Germany. It was just an important as any military or land on victory.
Reasons why even after U Boats Germany didn’t win?
reason way Britain won was cause it used its navy to maintain trade links with North America to ensure the supplies kept coming in.
a convoy system was when a large number of merchant ships sail together with the naval escort. Shipping companies were not enthusiastic about the idea but eventually agreed it was proved to bring a turning point in the war as now more and more ships were reached safely st the harbour.
Weapons on the sea
New weapons- submarines, torpedo and mines
mines- were used to protect harbours by both the French and the British.
submarines- were primitive and ineffective but were made effective by torpedos, which could cause damage to the biggest of the ships ,Another tactic was for submarines to lay mines in harbours to catch enemy ships by surprise as they set out at sea.
U boats- concentrated their attack on Allied warships when the Allied learns to protect their warships , they targeted allied merchant ships instead to start with a warning for the people in the ship and allowed the crew to abandoned the ship this convention was abandoned in February 1915 when the German began a campaign of unrestricted submarine warfare.
all allied ships were targeted or risked to being torpedoed with out warning, noticeable, early casualty of the new campaign was liner Lusitania.
British propaganda, painted this action as a criminal act, but there were some evidence of the ship was carrying explosives for the war effort too.
Nevertheless, this involved Americans in the war too as 100 citizens were all so on the ship that were killed .
Lusitania caused tension between the US and the Germany government. Two years later in 1917 the US cited that U boats campaign as one of the reasons for declaring one Germany.
after sinking of the Lusitania Germany, cut off the unrestricted warfare but started again in 1916 again the Germans as the aimed to prevent essential supplies getting to Britain. For example, Germany almost succeeded by June 1917 as Britain lost 500,000 tons of ships to the U-boats and at one point it was estimated that London has had about six weeks supplies of food remaining.
from 1916 the Allied improve their tactics for dealing with the U-boat however, the two factors were significant in the war against submarines the dedication of the sailors of the merchant navy and the massive output of shipbuilders by 1917 Britain and USA.
Germany simply did not have the resources sustain their campaign and was finally called Off.
Air
The aerial war in World War I served several purposes:
Reconnaissance:
- Using Planes to gather info about enemy troop movements, positions, and fortifications. This was crucial for strategic planning and decision-making. Was used by French, it was called berguet 14 helped in western front.
Observation and Artillery Targeting:
- Aircraft played a vital role in observing enemy activities on the ground this helped them direct artillery fire thus improving accuracy and effectiveness. This aerial coordination enhanced the efficiency of artillery units. For example British Royal Aircraft’s Factory R.E.8 and the German Halberstadt CL.II were employed for observation and artillery targeting.
Interception and Air Superiority:
- Aerial combat aka dogfights emerged as a means to gain air superiority. Controlling the skies was essential for protecting and directing ground forces while also disrupting enemy reconnaissance and bombing missions. Fighter planes engaged in dogfights to establish dominance in the air. For example Red Baron from Germany was known for being an ace and being exceptional skilled in dogfight.
Bombing Raids:
- Bombers were employed for strategic bombing raids on enemy cities, industrial centers, and military installations while in the initial stages technology was limited in the later stages of war bombing raids aimed to weaken the enemy’s infrastructure and morale. During World War I, one of the most famous bombing raids was the “Raid on Karlsruhe” in 1916 done by the Royal Naval Air Service at night on the German city of Karlsruhe. this raid marked a significant development in the use of bombers for strategic purposes during the war.
Psychological Impact:
- Aerial attacks, including bombing runs and strafing, had a psychological impact on both military personnel and civilians. For example, the initial zeppelin raid caused a major impact on the British cilvilans and always made them feel unsafe and scared of the possibility of another attack.
Uses by allies and Centrals
The Brits used air ships for escorting ships for hunting U boats,they would also spot U boat on the surface and warn the escort worship by radio
Although at the starting German airships were much more advanced, known as Zepplin key weapon at early war in the sea.
they were able to fly higher faster than many early plans were used as observation decks for the German fleet.
It was not long before the German realized the potential of Zepplin as bombers the first raid Hit British town in early 1915 the zeppelins could not carry heavy bombs, so they did not achieve to caused big damage but achieved psychological damage that cause civilians in Britain to not feel safe any more.
once air defence improved, it was clear Zepplin were very vulnerable,by 1918 speedy, powerful fighter planes and accurate anti aircraft fire took a toll of these giant aircraft as they were now outdated.
Aeroplanes were very unreliable highly dangerous came caused very high loses, especially among new pilots as the start of the war planes did the same job as the observation balloons.
The quick advancement of the air technology meant that commanders use them for detailed reconnaissance work over any trenches. photographers were took to spot Potential break in the line that could be fatal for the allies.
Enemy aircraft were sent to shoot down reconnaissance and soon the dogfight emerged.
The end of the war airplanes had been designed that could drop bombs altogether air raids took place as early as 1914 but they were notoriously ineffective and inaccurate.
the war speeded the development of the air technology in four years aircraft has changed from spring bags to sophisticated machines in four years.
Land
Key technological developments in land warfare include:
Tanks:
- introduced to break the stalemate of trench warfare. The British developed the first tanks, which were used to traverse difficult terrains like trenches and barbed wire. Tanks played a crucial role in overcoming entrenched positions. Although not very reliable cause were highly like to break down before reaching the trench’s.
Machine Guns:
- The war saw widespread use of machine guns, these weapons had a huge impact on the tactics employed on the battlefield, making traditional outdated in a sense land infantry charges more challenging and emphasizing the importance of trenches.
Artillery:
- Artillery underwent significant advancements in terms of range, accuracy, and firepower became integral for softening enemy defenses before infantry assaults.key to overcome the defences if the enemy. Although not very accurate and effective in attacking enemy initially. Later developed and British used techniques like creeping barrage to surprise attack Germans.
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Barbed Wire:
- Barbed wire became a pervasive obstacle on the battlefield, used to impede infantry movement and protect trenches and played a defensive role, contributing to the static nature of trench warfare.
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Poison Gas:
- The use of chemical weapons, particularly poison gas, was a notable and controversial development by Germans in the battle of Ypres. Mustard gas, chlorine, and phosgene were employed to inflict casualties and demoralize enemy forces. Gas masks became essential protective gear.
Sniper Rifles:
- Sniper rifles with improved accuracy and optics became important tools for marksmen and Snipers played a crucial role in disrupting enemy operations/creating fear among opposing troops.
These technological developments in land warfare during World War I laid the groundwork for future military innovations. The lessons learned from the challenges of trench warfare and the need for breakthrough technologies influenced the evolution of military tactics and equipment in subsequent conflicts.
Types of war
Civil war*
Russian Civil War (1918-1922):
Withdrawal from the Eastern Front:
- The Bolshevik victory in the Russian Civil War led to the establishment of the Soviet Union.
Prior to this, the Bolshevik government, under Vladimir Lenin, signed the Treaty with the Central Powers in 1918, resulting in Russia’s withdrawal from World War I.
- This allowed Germany and its allies to shift their focus and resources from the Eastern Front to the Western.
- The withdrawal of Russia from the war gave the Central Powers, particularly Germany, a temporary advantage. It allowed them to concentrate their forces on the Western Front in an attempt to break the stalemate against the Allies. However, the entry of the United States into the war odffset this advantage.
Contributed to Political and Ideological Changes:
- The outcome of the Russian Civil War, with the establishment of the Soviet Union, had long-term consequences. The ideological shift and the emergence of a new political entity influenced global politics and contributed to the ideological divide during the interwar period and beyond.
Impact on the outcome of the war:
The Russian Civil War contributed to the collapse of the Eastern Front and changing the geopolitical landscape in Europe to a big extent. In summary, the Russian Civil War significantly impacted the outcome of World War I by prompting Russia’s withdrawal from the conflict, altering the balance of power temporarily, and contributing to the overall complexity of the war. The subsequent events set the stage for a post-war geopolitical landscape that would shape the course of history.
2. Wars Between States: Examples: Western Front (France, UK, Belgium vs. Germany); Eastern Front (Russia vs. Germany and Austria-Hungary) Impact: The wars between states formed the core of World War I. Trench warfare on the Western Front resulted in a prolonged stalemate, with massive casualties for both sides. The entry of the United States into the war in 1917 provided fresh manpower and resources for the Allies, altering the balance of power and contributing to the eventual victory.The infusion of American resources, troops, and economic support played a crucial role in tipping the scales and contributing to the Central Powers’ eventual defeat.
Guerrilla Wars:
Examples: Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire, Balkan resistance movements
Impact: Guerrilla actions had localized impacts, particularly in the Middle East and the Balkans. T.E. Lawrence’s leadership in the Arab Revolt weakened Ottoman forces and disrupted their control over key territories. While not decisive on a global scale, these guerrilla efforts influenced the strategic situation in certain regions and added complexity to the overall war.
Guerrilla actions, while not really impacting the Western Front, created additional challenges for the Central Powers in the eastern front. Disruptions to supply lines and weakening of control in peripheral regions added to the complexity of the overall war effort and also minimally causing the defeat of Centrals
The extent of the mobilization of human and economic resources
- Human Mobilization:
Military Drafts: Many nations implemented conscription, drafting large numbers of men into military service, this led to vast armies being mobilized, contributing to the massive scale of the war. - Total War Effort:
Civilians were also actively involved in the war effort. Women entered the workforce in greater numbers, filling roles left vacant by men who had gone to fight. The total mobilization of societies meant that entire populations were engaged in supporting the war in various capacities also contributes in the long term cause of rights for women.
Economic Mobilization:
- War Production:
Economies were reoriented to support the war. Factories shifted from producing consumer goods to manufacturing war material , including weapons, ammunition, and military equipment.
- Resource Allocation:
resources were redirected to meet the demands of war. Food, fuel, and raw materials were rationed, and governments controlled economies to ensure an adequate supply of necessities for the war effort.
- War Bonds and Financing:Nations raised funds through war bonds and loans to finance their war efforts. Citizens were encouraged to invest in these financial instruments to support the war financially.
Impact on the Outcome:
- War of Attrition:
The massive mobilization of human and economic resources turned World War I into a war of attrition in terms of resources and people . Both sides hoped to outlast the other through continuous engagement and resource depletion.
- Technological Advancements: The economic mobilization facilitated technological advancements in warfare, including the production of new weapons, tanks, airplanes, and chemical weapons. This influenced the nature of the conflict.
Human and Societal Impact:
- Casualties and Losses:
The mobilization of large armies resulted in tons of casualties. The war caused immense human suffering, with millions of soldiers and civilians losing their lives.
-Social Changes:
The total mobilization of societies led to significant social changes. Women’s roles evolved, and the experience of war influenced political movements and attitudes toward authority.
In summary, the extensive mobilization of human and economic resources in World War I influenced the outcome by shaping the scale and nature of the conflict. It turned the war into a comprehensive societal effort, affecting not only the military but also the economies and societies of the nations involved. The sheer scale of mobilization, coupled with the entry of the United States into the war, played a pivotal role in determining the final outcome in favor of the Allies.
The influence and/or involvement of foreign powers
The involvement of foreign powers played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of World War I. Here are key aspects of their influence and impact:
Entry of the United States:
Impact: The United States entered the war in 1917, contributing significant resources, manpower, and economic support to the Allied powers. The arrival of fresh American troops played a decisive role in tipping the balance in favor of the Allies. The U.S. involvement also brought about a psychological boost to the Allied forces. And turned the tables in the war.
Russian Withdrawal:
- Impact:The Russian Revolution in 1917 led to the withdrawal of Russia from the war following the Bolshevik takeover. This allowed the Central Powers, particularly Germany, to shift their focus and resources from the Eastern Front to the Western Front. The absence of a cohesive Russian military presence on the Eastern Front had strategic implications.
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Ottoman Empire and the Middle East:
- Impact:The Ottoman Empire, aligned with the Central Powers, faced challenges in the Middle East. The Arab Revolt, supported by British and French forces, weakened Ottoman control and contributed to the eventual dismantling of the Ottoman Empire. The outcomes of campaigns in the Middle East influenced post-war territorial arrangements.
Italy’s Switch of Alliances:
- Impact: Italy, originally aligned with the Central Powers, switched sides and joined the Allies in 1915. The entry of Italian forces into the war on the side of the Allies had an impact on the Southern Front, contributing to the broader dynamics of the conflict.
Naval Warfare and Blockades:
- Impact: Naval powers, particularly the British Royal Navy, played a vital role in imposing blockades and controlling trade routes. The naval blockade contributed to economic pressure on the Central Powers, limiting their access to essential resources. The blockages benefited all the countries that were a part of Allies. The connections from North America helped Britain get all the essential supplies even when Germany blocked their trade route and sank many of their merchant ships.
In summary, the involvement of foreign powers had a profound impact on the dynamics of World War I. The entry of the United States, the withdrawal of Russia, shifts in alliances, and campaigns in various theaters collectively influenced the course of the conflict and contributed to the ultimate victory of the Allies. The geopolitical consequences of the war shaped the post-war world order and set the stage for future conflicts.
