WW1 As Total War Flashcards
Why is WW1 considered a total war?
Both sides fought for complete victory, not limited aims
Governments used all weaponry at their disposal to win, developed new technologies as war progressed
Involved all people of major countries, civilians and soldiers both seen as the enemy. Women played a role in war effort.
Actions developed new ways of controlling economy and their own populations, social and economic changes
Define total war
A conflict that encompasses a total mobilisation of resources such as human, industrial, agricultural, military with an aim to have such an output that the enemy won’t be able to overcome. Civilians and soldiers are all the enemy.
How did the aims of the fighters make it a total war?
Aims were ‘total’, made negotiated peace difficult
Ambitious war aims.
France wanted Alsace Lorraine, Britain wanted to crush Prussian militarism
Propaganda reinforced nationalism, justifying the war, demonising the enemy. Needed to then public opinion.
Both sides believed they could win, unwilling to stop fighting (stalemate)
How did the use of weaponry make it a total war?
Full arsenal of weapons at their disposal. Developed new technologies for land, sea and air warfare to try and break stalemate and achieve total victory.
Involved breaking international agreements - use of gas
How did the role of civilians make it a total war?
Civilian casualties were present, due to new technology, raids on Britain, British planes caused severe damage to German factories
Eastern Front - strong civilian involvement, accidentally and deliberately. Ethnic violence also occurred. Lives of civilians affected by ‘lost generation’
Impact economically on civilians, cut off supplies to their enemies (British blockade) desperate food shortages. Germany’s submarine warfare also contributed. Rationing introduced
Women joined the workforce
How did the growth of governmental power make it a total war?
Governments tried to ensure maximum use was being made of human and economic resources.
Controlling Manpower - conscription introduced, ensured both military and industry were provided for.
Controlling production - UK nationalised key industries such as coal and shipping, regulated wages to prevent inflation
Controlling morale - time and energy on war propaganda, began as nationalist and defensive became about justifying the length of the war. Portrayed enemy as an inhuman force that must be defeated
Controlling the economy - Britain increased direct taxation, all countries borrowed heavily - ‘war loans’ which had to be paid back. R - led to rapid inflation, leading to revolution. G borrowed heavily certain of victory.
