Modern Warfare And Civilans Flashcards
(3 cards)
Recruitment
For the first time since the medieval period WW1 saw civilains being forced into active duty.
6 billion Britons fought in the 20 th century
700000 died in ww1
450000 died in ww2
Home guard-Voluntary part time force used to defend if an invasion occurred
Civil defence - volunteers defended country from air raids . By 1945 1.4 million air wardens served . 7000 had died in the line of duty
Women’s voluntary service- supported the civil defence and provided a million volunteers
Living on the home front
Rationing-April 1917 Britain only had a few weeks of wheat left as the germans continued to destroy supply lines. Rationing started in 1918. It was brought back in 1940 and remained for 14 years
Blitz-Between 1940 and 41 two million british homes where destroyed . 1.5 million civilians were evacuated .
Government powers greatly expanded during the world wars. The defence of the realm act of 1914 allowed the Government to censor media relating to the war and take control of key industries. The emergency power act of 1940 allowed the government to force people into jobs more beneficial to the war effort
Air raid precautions-During ww2 gas masks were issued and air raid shelters were setup in in public areas and in family gardens. Children were evacuated and for those who remained curfews were enforced and blackouts occurred to reduce casualties
Benefits of the war
Modern warfare leads brought unexpected benefits . For example due to an increase of wounded , medical techniques were advanced faster . Also provided equality for women as they took the same jobs as men in the same front .
