world war one (1914-18) Flashcards
(45 cards)
When did Britain enter WWI and why?
On 4 August 1914, Britain declared war on Germany after it invaded neutral Belgium, violating the 1839 Treaty of London
What was the British Expeditionary Force (BEF)?
A small, professional force of 100,000 troops sent to France in 1914. Played a key role in early battles like Mons and the Marne.
What was trench warfare?
A form of static warfare involving deep trenches, barbed wire, and defensive positions. Became dominant on the Western Front by late 1914.
What was the ‘Race to the Sea’?
A series of flanking manoeuvres between the Allies and Germany in 1914 that led to continuous trench lines from the Swiss border to the North Sea
What were the ‘Pals Battalions’?
Units formed from men of the same local area or workplace. Encouraged mass volunteering in 1914–15 but led to concentrated local casualties.
What did the Military Service Act (1916) introduce?
It made conscription compulsory for single men aged 18–41, later extended to married men and widened age ranges.
What was the role of propaganda during WWI?
To encourage enlistment, support morale, and demonise the enemy. Over 50 million posters were printed during the war.
What was the significance of the Battle of the Somme (1916)?
One of the bloodiest battles in history. 57,000 British casualties on the first day alone. Taught lessons in artillery, coordination, and tactics.
What was the creeping barrage?
A tactic where artillery fire moved forward in waves just ahead of advancing infantry. Helped improve success in 1916–18.
When were tanks first used in battle?
First used at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette (Sept 1916). Limited success but marked the start of armoured warfare.
What was the Battle of Cambrai (1917)?
First mass use of tanks. Over 400 tanks broke through German lines, showing the potential of mechanised assault.
What was the Vickers machine gun and its significance?
Introduced in 1912, capable of firing 500 rounds/min. Vital for defence but contributed to high casualties in offensive attacks
What was the role of aircraft in WWI?
Initially for reconnaissance; later used for dogfights, bombing, and ground attack. Played a growing role by 1918.
What was the Royal Flying Corps (RFC)?
Formed in 1912, merged into the RAF in 1918. Played key roles in reconnaissance and tactical bombing.
What was DORA (Defence of the Realm Act), 1914?
Gave government powers over censorship, industry, land use, and arrest without trial. Marked shift to total war.
How did rationing work in Britain?
Voluntary at first, compulsory rationing introduced in Jan 1918. Covered sugar, meat, butter, and other essentials.
What was the U-boat threat?
German submarines attacked merchant shipping. Britain countered with convoys and depth charges to maintain supplies
What was the Battle of Jutland (May 1916)?
Major naval battle between Britain and Germany. Tactically inconclusive, but Britain maintained naval supremacy
How did the war affect women’s employment?
Women took on roles in munitions, agriculture (Women’s Land Army), and clerical work. Over 1 million women worked in war industries
What was the Representation of the People Act (1918)?
Gave the vote to women over 30 and all men over 21. Recognition of women’s war contribution and expanded democracy.
How was public morale maintained?
Through censorship, patriotic propaganda, and royal visits. Films like The Battle of the Somme were used to galvanise support.
How were conscientious objectors treated?
Those who refused to fight faced tribunals. Some did alternative service; others faced prison or public shaming
What were war bonds and how were they used?
Citizens were encouraged to lend money to the government. Helped fund the war and involved the public financially
How did income tax change during the war?
Rose from 3.75% to 30% for higher incomes. Aimed to fund the war and manage national debt.
