YEAR 9 ww1 and ww2 Revision Flashcards
What were the main causes of ww1
Militarism, alliances, imperialism, nationalism, and the assassination of Archduke Frank Ferdinand of Austria - Hungary of 1914
Describe the Schlieffen Plan
A German military strategy developed before ww1, it aimed to quickly defeat France in the left then focus on Russia in the east. The plan involved rapid invasion of Belgium to encircle Paris. Plan faced challenges, contributing to the prolonged conflict of ww1.
Describe Trench warfare
Soldiers on both sides dug networks of trenches to protect themselves from enemy fire. Stretched for miles across the Western Front , leading to each side not making any significant advances. Soldiers were in danger of artillery bombardment, machine gun fire and disease.
Describe the Technological developments in ww1
The use of machine guns, which had deadly accuracy, changing the nature of infantry combat. Poison gas, causing widespread casualties leading to gas masks for protection. Tanks, providing armoured support for infantry and breaking through enemy lines. Aircraft for reconnaissance and eventually for air combat, marking the beginning of aerial warfare.
Describe the use of propaganda
Shaped public opinion and mobilising support for the war efforts. Used by governments to influence people’s beliefs, emotions and views. Employed through various mediums such as posters, films radio broadcasts and newspapers to promote patriotic ideas, demonise the enemy and gain support for the war. Often exaggerating victories, portrayed the enemy negatively and aimed to boost morale. Shaped perceptions and rallied populations behind the war efforts during conflicts.
What was the role of Commonwealth troops during the wars
Fought alongside British troops contributing to key conflicts and battles, displayed courage, dedication and resilience, making substantial contributions to the Allied victories in both conflicts. Involvement highlighted unity among nations in times of great turmoil.
Describe the Home Front efforts
Civilians on the home front were actively involved in various ways, such as working in factories to produce war resources, rationing supplies and providing support to soldiers on the front lines. Women took on new roles in the workforce to fill the gaps made by man who were fighting in the wars.
Describe the evolution of medicine during the wars
Improvements in surgical techniques, the establishment of mobile medical units closer to the front lines, the introduction of new treatments for conditions like trench foot and gas poisoning. Medical professionals made progress in understanding and treating psychological trauma, known as shell shock. Helped save lives and laid the foundation for further innovations in healthcare.
What were the causes of ww2
The treaty of Versailles, economic instability, the rise of totalitarian regimes, and territorial ambitions. Also, the invasion of Poland by Germany in 1939, and the attack on Pearl Harbour by Japan in 1941, and the invasion of the Soviet Union by Germany in 1941.
Describe Operation Pied Piper
A regime to evacuate children from urban areas to safer locations in the countryside, aimed to protect children from the dangers of bombing raids, resulted in the relocations of millions of children, who were sent to live with host families or in schools far away from places that were of higher risk of bombing attacks.
Describe the Bombing of Dresden
Massive air raids carried out by the Allies on the city of Dresden, Germany in February 1945. Resulted in widespread destruction and death. It had a significant impact of civilian populations due to the devastation it had caused.
The atomic bomb
Used by the US against Japan in Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Aug of 1945.. Played a significant role in Japan’s decision to surrender, ultimately leading to the end of ww2.
Describe the outcome of the 1945 election
The Labour Party of led by Clement Attlee, and they won by a landslide victory. It was a turning point in British politics, they implemented major reforms, including the establishment of the welfare state, including the NHS. Aimed to provide social security, healthcare and education for all, leading to an equitable society.
