WW1 History Study PDF

WW1: 1. What were the long and short term causes of World War 1? Short-term causes of World War 1 include the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and rising tensions between European powers. Long-term causes include militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism, where European countr...

WW1: 1. What were the long and short term causes of World War 1? Short-term causes of World War 1 include the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and rising tensions between European powers. Long-term causes include militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism, where European countries competed for power, resources, and influence, leading to a volatile and unstable environment. 2. How did Australia respond to the war? Australia responded to World War I by declaring support for Britain, automatically entering the war in 1914. Thousands of volunteers enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF), contributing significantly to major campaigns, such as Gallipoli and the Western Front. Australia's involvement helped shape its national identity. 3. What was the nature of warfare in ww1? World War I saw a shift to modern, industrialized warfare. It was characterized by trench warfare, where soldiers fought from long, entrenched positions, leading to a stalemate. New technologies, such as machine guns, tanks, airplanes, and poison gas, caused devastating casualties. Warfare was largely defensive, with heavy losses and limited territorial gains. 4. What was trench warfare's? Trench warfare was a type of combat used during World War I, where soldiers fought from deep, fortified ditches, or trenches, to protect themselves from enemy fire. Trenches stretched across battlefields, often leading to long stalemates with little movement. Soldiers faced harsh conditions like mud, rats, and disease, while constantly under threat of enemy attacks, artillery bombardments, and poison gas. The goal was usually to gain small, strategic territories, but the brutal and static nature of trench warfare resulted in high casualties and prolonged suffering. 5. Who were the Anzac's? The ANZACs were Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers who fought together during World War I. They are best known for their involvement in the Gallipoli Campaign of 1915, where they landed on the Turkish coast under heavy fire. Despite facing harsh conditions and heavy losses, the ANZACs gained a reputation for courage, endurance, and mateship. Their actions during the campaign became a defining moment in the history of both Australia and New Zealand, fostering a strong sense of national identity. ANZAC Day, celebrated on April 25th, honors their bravery and sacrifice. 6. What is the Anzac legend? Why is it significant? The ANZAC legend represents the bravery, resilience, and camaraderie of Australian and New Zealand soldiers during World War I, especially at Gallipoli. It is significant as it shaped national identities and pride for both countries. ANZAC Day, celebrated annually, honors their sacrifice and fosters remembrance of military service. 7. What happened at Gallipoli? At Gallipoli, in 1915, Allied forces, including Australian and New Zealand (ANZAC) troops, attempted to capture the Dardanelles Strait and weaken the Ottoman Empire. The campaign, intended to open a new front, faced strong Turkish resistance. The Allies suffered heavy casualties, and after months of fierce fighting, they withdrew without achieving their objectives. Gallipoli became a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, especially for Australia and New Zealand, shaping their national identities. 8. How was life in the trenches at Gallipoli and the Western front? Life in the trenches at Gallipoli and the Western Front was harsh and uncomfortable. Soldiers faced constant threats from enemy fire, artillery bombardments, and snipers. Trenches were overcrowded, muddy, and often filled with rats, lice, and diseases like dysentery. The stench of rotting bodies and unsanitary conditions made life unbearable. Soldiers had limited food, faced extreme weather conditions, and endured long periods of boredom, punctuated by violent combat. Mental strain, often referred to as "shell shock" (now known as PTSD), was widespread. Despite these hardships, soldiers formed strong bonds of camaraderie and showed remarkable resilience.  9. How had the industrial revolution changed warfare? The Industrial Revolution transformed warfare by introducing advanced weaponry, such as machine guns and artillery, and new technologies like tanks and airplanes. Mass production allowed armies to be equipped quickly, while steam-powered transportation improved logistics. These innovations made warfare more deadly, mechanized, and on a larger, more industrial scale. 10. Why would men enlist to go to war? Men enlisted to go to war for various reasons, including patriotism, a sense of duty to their country, and pressure from society. Many sought adventure, camaraderie, or a steady income. Others were influenced by nationalistic pride, propaganda, or the desire to defend family and home. Some also felt peer pressure or were driven by a sense of adventure or duty. 11. What were recruitment posters and how were they used? Recruitment posters were used during World War I to encourage men to enlist. Featuring patriotic messages and powerful imagery, they appealed to emotions like duty and pride. Displayed in public spaces, these posters aimed to inspire men to join the military, often using persuasive or shaming tactics to increase enlistment. 12. What was conscription? Did Australians have conscription? Why or why not? Conscription is the mandatory enlistment of individuals into the military. During World War I, Australia did not have conscription for overseas service. Despite this, the government held two referendums (in 1916 and 1917) to introduce conscription, but both were rejected by voters. Many Australians opposed conscription, arguing that it was unfair to force men into war, especially as the casualties mounted. The debate over conscription divided the nation, with strong opposition from unions, religious groups, and labor organizations. Consequently, Australia relied on voluntary enlistment throughout the war. 13. What was the role of Women in the war? During World War I, women played key roles as nurses, working in military hospitals and on the frontlines. They also filled jobs in factories, offices, and farms, replacing men who enlisted. Women volunteered for support roles, raised funds, and advocated for social and political change, including voting rights. 14. Why did Australia support the British empire during the war? Australia supported the British Empire during World War I due to strong historical, cultural, and political ties. As a British dominion, Australia felt a sense of loyalty and duty to Britain, viewing itself as part of the Empire. Many Australians believed they should defend the British motherland, and the alliance was seen as vital for national security and identity. Additionally, Britain’s global influence and Australia’s reliance on British trade and defense made support seem necessary. The sense of shared heritage and common values further motivated Australia’s involvement in the war. 15. How did the war come to an end? World War I ended with the signing of the Armistice on November 11, 1918, after the Central Powers, particularly Germany, were exhausted. The Treaty of Versailles formally ended the war in 1919, imposing harsh penalties on Germany. These conditions contributed to future tensions and World War II.