Impact of the First World War on Civilian Populations of two countries Notes

Overview

1. The war wasn’t just fought on the front lines.
2. Civilians (people who weren’t soldiers) were deeply affected by the First World War.
3. If you have to use two countries to compare, focus on Britain and Germany. These are two key European countries who experienced the war very differently.

Britain

Food and Rationing

1. Germany’s submarine attacks on British ships caused food shortages.
2. Rationing was introduced in 1918. People were given limited portions of meat, sugar, and butter.
3. People grew their own food in "Victory Gardens".

Propaganda and Censorship

1. The government used posters, films, and newspapers to control public opinion.
2. Information about defeats and death tolls was kept quiet to keep morale high.

Role of Women

1. Women took over jobs left by men who went to fight.
2. Changed attitudes about women working.

Air Raids and Fear

1. Civilians were attacked from the air.
2. German Zeppelins bombed British towns and cities.
3. Civilians had to deal with fear and destruction even though they weren’t on the battlefield.

Germany

Food and Starvation

1. The British navy blockaded German ports, stopping food and supplies from coming in.
2. The Turnip Winter (1916–17) was a time when people had almost nothing to eat except turnips.
3. Many people died from hunger or disease.

Censorship and Control

1. The German government controlled newspapers and speech.
2. People couldn’t speak out against the war without punishment.

Growing Anger and Protests

1. There were strikes and protests in factories.
2. By 1918, people were demanding peace. There were revolts and uprisings, especially from soldiers and workers.

Role of Women

1. Women worked in factories, farms, and transport.
2. Conditions were harder. More shortages, longer hours, and lower pay.