The war to end all wars
Death and destruction on a global scale
Four long years of bloodshed, destruction, and chaos. A world plunged into mayhem, as countries and empires clashed over muddy battlefields, smoke filled skies and grey, churning seas.
...the catalyst for a cataclysmic chain of events...
The First World War. A war like no other.
A war of unprecedented scale and devastation, ignited by the assassination of a relatively obscure member of European nobility, stands as a haunting testament to the intricacies of history.
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo in 1914 served as the catalyst for a cataclysmic chain of events that plunged the world into the abyss of the First World War.
This seemingly isolated act of violence revealed the interconnectedness of global politics and alliances during the early 20th century.
It underscored how a single spark, even in the periphery of power, could set ablaze the tinderbox of political tensions, leading to a conflict that reshaped nations and scarred generations.
Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary. His assassination in Sarajevo in 1914, would spark off a chain of events leading to the First World War.
Casualty Comparison chart for the First World War.
German soldiers marching to war in 1914.
Germany 1914 // HD Colorization — Corporals in Training Arrive at Wetzlar - YouTube
...senseless loss of life...
For four harrowing years, spanning from 1914 to 1918, the world witnessed a grim and relentless procession of its young men being sent to the slaughter.
The Great War, with its brutal trenches, devastating artillery barrages, and senseless loss of life, exacted an immeasurable toll on an entire generation.
Millions of promising lives were cut short in the prime of their youth, leaving families shattered and communities mourning.
British troops on the march during the Battle of the Somme in 1916. The British suffered somewhere between 350,000 to over 400,00 casualties during the five months that the battle was fought.
The conflict was a testament to the destructive power of modern warfare and the horrors that humanity was capable of inflicting upon itself. It stands as a stark reminder of the profound and enduring consequences of global conflict.
...could fire hundreds of rounds per minute, transforming infantry assaults into suicidal endeavors...
Often dubbed "The Great War," this was a cataclysmic conflict that witnessed technological advances at an unprecedented rate, ushering in a new era of warfare that left an indelible mark on history.
Particularly on the battlefields of Europe, these technological innovations had a profound and often devastating impact.
Out with the old...
One of the most significant technological developments of the war was the proliferation of machine guns.
Weapons like the German MG 08 and British Lewis Gun could fire hundreds of rounds per minute, transforming infantry assaults into suicidal endeavors.
Old military tactics, such as massed charges, became obsolete in the face of this relentless hail of bullets.
Machine guns forced both sides to seek cover in trenches, giving rise to the infamous trench warfare of The First World War.
Soldiers huddled in these narrow, muddy trenches, enduring not only the threat of enemy fire but also the squalid conditions and psychological toll of this protracted form of warfare.
German prisoners in a POW camp at Langemarck, Belgium 26 September 1917. The expression of the soldier closest to the camera says it all.
...deal death at a horrifying rate...
Attempts to advance across no man's land, the barren and heavily fortified area between opposing trenches, often resulted in catastrophic losses.
Entire companies, platoons, and battalions faced annihilation within moments, leaving behind landscapes of unimaginable horror.
The machine gun's ability to deal death at a horrifying rate was a defining feature of the war.
A German cavalryman during the First World War. Cavalry units during WWI initially faced difficulties due to trench warfare and machine guns, but they adapted by serving in reconnaissance, communication, and rapid response roles, showcasing their continued strategic value despite technological changes on the battlefield.
https://www.reddit.com/r/ww1/comments/n9igi0/german_cavalry_colorized/
In with the big guns
Artillery underwent remarkable advancements during the First World War, significantly changing the nature of warfare and the landscape itself.
Massive cannons and howitzers, such as the German Big Bertha and the British BL 9.2-inch howitzer, could launch shells over long distances with unprecedented accuracy.
These powerful weapons could strike targets miles away, leading to extensive bombardments that would precede infantry assaults.
Artillery barrages transformed the physical geography of vast expanses of land. Once-idyllic meadows and farmlands, along with entire communities, were turned into apocalyptic landscapes.
Spent British artillery shells during the Battle of the Somme, 1916 - one of the most destructive battles of the war. More than three million men fought in the battle, of whom one million were either wounded or killed, making it one of the deadliest battles in all of human history.
A German gun crew during the First World War. German artillery during the conflict was highly effective and devastating, featuring advanced weapons like the Big Bertha howitzer. Their heavy artillery barrages caused immense destruction, reshaped battlefields, and played a crucial role in trench warfare, profoundly impacting the conflict's dynamics.
...created craters the size of buildings...
The French countryside, particularly in regions like the Somme and Verdun, bore the brunt of these destructive forces.
High-explosive shells, weighing hundreds of pounds, created craters the size of buildings.
These craters, often filled with water, dotted the battlefields as far as the eye could see, creating a treacherous and hellish environment for soldiers on both sides.
Canadian officers interested in a large French gun mounted on railroad, October 1917. Railway artillery during WWI provided long-range bombardment capabilities, allowing massive guns to be transported via rail and positioned strategically. These powerful weapons could deliver devastating firepower, disrupting enemy fortifications and supply lines from a considerable distance.
https://www.vintag.es/2016/12/29-incredible-colorized-photos-of.html
...left scars on the earth that are still visible today...
One notable example of artillery's devastating impact is the Battle of Verdun in 1916, where over 40 million artillery shells were fired, leaving the area with a lunar-like landscape.
The impact of these artillery barrages left scars on the earth that are still visible today, serving as a haunting reminder of the war's brutality.
The sheer scale of destruction wrought by artillery fire during the First World War remains one of the most enduring and visible legacies of the conflict.
Article from the September 5th 1914 edition of the 'Scientific Journal' comparing the sizes of armies.
Gas! Gas! Gas!
Gas warfare was another grim technological innovation of the First World War, introducing a new level of horror to the battlefield.
Poison gas, such as chlorine, phosgene, and mustard gas, was deployed to incapacitate and kill enemy soldiers, breaking the stalemate of trench warfare.
The first large-scale use of chlorine gas occurred during the Second Battle of Ypres in 1915, where German forces released 168 tons of the gas, creating a deadly green-yellow cloud that drifted towards the Allied lines.
Chlorine gas spreads across the Ypres battlefield in April 1915 as photographed by an RFC aircraft. Chlorine gas in WWI caused severe respiratory damage, blindness, and death, leading to panic and chaos on the battlefield. Its use necessitated the development of gas masks and altered military strategies due to its devastating effects.
Royal Air Force Museum
https://deanoworldtravels.wordpress.com/2016/03/05/the-dreaded-gas-warfare-of-world-war-one/
...severe blistering of the skin, eyes, and lungs...
Soldiers, unprepared for this new weapon, suffered severe respiratory damage, with many dying within minutes.
Mustard gas, first used by the Germans in 1917, was even more sinister. It caused severe blistering of the skin, eyes, and lungs, leading to prolonged suffering and death.
Unlike chlorine gas, mustard gas was heavier than air and could linger in the trenches and low-lying areas for days, continuing to inflict damage long after its initial deployment.
Soldiers caught in mustard gas attacks experienced excruciating pain and often faced life-long injuries, including blindness and chronic respiratory issues.
French soldiers awaiting a gas attack in France, 1917.
...a lasting legacy of trauma and suffering...
The psychological impact of gas warfare was profound. The constant threat of gas attacks forced soldiers to carry gas masks at all times and to remain vigilant, adding to their stress and fear.
Gas warfare not only caused immediate physical harm but also left a lasting legacy of trauma and suffering, with many veterans bearing the physical and mental scars for the rest of their lives.
The use of poison gas during the First World War remains one of the most dreaded aspects of the conflict, highlighting the brutal lengths to which both sides would go to achieve victory.
Senegalese French troops getting acquainted with their new gask masks.
https://www.vintag.es/2016/12/29-incredible-colorized-photos-of.html
Allied soldiers and their horses wearing gas masks during World War One. Gas warfare in WWI, using chlorine, phosgene, and mustard gas, caused severe injuries, deaths, and long-term health issues, leading to the development of gas masks and changing military tactics due to its devastating psychological and physical effects on soldiers.
Royal Air Force Museum
https://deanoworldtravels.wordpress.com/2016/03/05/the-dreaded-gas-warfare-of-world-war-one/
Enter the landships
The development and impact of tanks during the First World War marked a significant shift in military technology and battlefield tactics.
The British were the pioneers in tank development, with the Mark I tank making its debut at the Battle of the Somme in 1916.
The concept of the tank was driven by the need to break the deadlock of trench warfare, where traditional infantry assaults resulted in massive casualties.
British Mark IV 'Female' Tank With Lewis Guns, 1917. The development of the British Mark IV tanks during WWI saw significant improvements over earlier models, including thicker armor and better maneuverability. Introduced in 1917, these tanks played a crucial role in breaking through enemy lines, particularly at the Battle of Cambrai.
Early tanks, such as the Mark I, featured caterpillar tracks that allowed them to traverse the rough terrain of no man's land, including trenches and barbed wire.
They were heavily armored to withstand machine gun and small arms fire, and they carried armaments including machine guns and cannons.
However, these early models faced numerous technical challenges, such as mechanical unreliability, slow speeds, and vulnerability to artillery fire.
...making massed charges obsolete...
An Austro-Hungarian prisoner taken by the British army on the Italian Front, 1918.
Photograph taken by W. J. Brunell.
Colourised by julius.colorization
Julius Backman Jääskeläinen (@julius.colorization) • Instagram photos and videos
© IWM (Q 25861)/artistic rendition 2023.
The development continued with subsequent models like the Mark IV, which addressed some of these issues by improving armour thickness, manoeuvrability, and internal layout.
The Mark IV played a crucial role in the Battle of Cambrai in 1917, demonstrating the potential of tanks in coordinated assaults with infantry and artillery.
This battle marked the first large-scale, effective use of tanks, achieving significant breakthroughs in the German lines and highlighting their strategic value.
The psychological impact of tanks on enemy troops was also profound. The sight of these armored behemoths advancing across the battlefield created fear and confusion, undermining the morale of entrenched soldiers.
Tanks symbolized a new era of warfare, where mobility and armored protection could break the stalemate of trench warfare.
A German A7V heavy tank nicknamed "Adalbert" is seen here with two of its crew being transported upon a railway flat car. The tank saw action in 1918 at Villers-Bretonneux, midway between Amiens and St Quentin. Spring, 1918.
...becoming even more lethal...
Despite their initial limitations, the introduction of tanks during the First World War had a lasting impact on military strategy and technology.
They paved the way for future advancements in armored warfare, influencing the design of tanks in subsequent conflicts, particularly in the Second World War.
The evolution of tanks during the First World War highlighted the importance of innovation in overcoming tactical challenges and reshaped the dynamics of battlefield engagements.
Two tankmen sitting in an open tank Renault ft-17, 1918, France. The cramped interior can clearly be seen and the rudimentary conditions well imagined.
https://mediadrumworld.com/2018/06/19/first-use-of-ww1-tanks/
Reach for the skies
Amid the horrors of the First World War, the skies above bore witness to remarkable technological advancements that forever changed the nature of warfare.
From nimble fighter planes to powerful bombers and ominous Zeppelins, the aerial battleground became a theater of both terror and innovation.
Fighter planes, like the iconic Sopwith Camel and the agile Fokker Dr.I, revolutionized aerial combat.
These aircraft were equipped with machine guns synchronized to fire through the spinning propellers, allowing pilots to engage in dogfights with deadly precision.
Fighter aces such as Baron Manfred von Richthofen, the "Red Baron," and British aviators Mick Mannock and James McCudden, became household names for their extraordinary skill and bravery in the skies.
Their fame, however, was tragically short-lived, as all of them met their demise by the war's end.
Manfred von Richthofen, 'The Red Baron', the highest scoring fighter pilot of the First World War.
C.J. von Dühren
An Allied pilot posing next to his colourfully decorated aircraft.
...strategic bombing marked a chilling escalation...
The lumbering bombers, like the British Handley Page and the German Gotha, brought death and destruction to enemy cities and military installations.
The introduction of strategic bombing marked a chilling escalation in the scope of conflict, as civilian populations were increasingly caught in the crossfire. Technological advancements allowed these bombers to carry larger payloads and fly at higher altitudes, making them more formidable adversaries.
A crashed German aircraft piloted by Richard Scholl who was reported missing in September 1918. Flying combat aircraft in the First World War was extremely dangerous due to unreliable aircraft, lack of safety equipment, and constant threats from enemy fire. Pilots faced mechanical failures, harsh weather, and limited navigation tools, resulting in high mortality rates and frequent crashes during combat and training missions. Parachutes were not worn by pilots, despite their invention prior to the conflict, which added to the death toll.
Gasbags
The sinister, floating Zeppelins, such as the infamous German LZ 129 Hindenburg, represented both innovation and terror during the First World War. These massive airships could travel long distances and drop bombs on civilian targets with relative impunity.
Their ability to strike deep into enemy territory created a new kind of psychological warfare, spreading fear among civilian populations far from the front lines.
One of the most notorious examples was the Zeppelin raids on London, which began in 1915.
These attacks killed and injured hundreds of civilians, marking the first time an enemy had targeted the British mainland from the air.
A German Zeppelin after a forced landing in France, 1917. Although vulnerable, the Zeppelins represented another advance in military technology.
Colourised by A. B. Cannon
...highlighted the inherent risks...
British Propaganda Poster related to German airships bombing London during the First World War.
https://www.historycrunch.com/airships-in-world-war-i.html#/
However, Zeppelins were not invincible. They were slow-moving and large, making them easy targets for anti-aircraft fire.
The development of incendiary bullets by the Allies further increased their vulnerability.
One notable incident was the downing of the LZ 37 in 1915 by British aviator Reginald Warneford, who managed to destroy the airship by dropping bombs on it from above.
The ultimate demise of the Hindenburg in 1937, which caught fire while attempting to land in New Jersey, highlighted the inherent risks of using hydrogen-filled airships, although this occurred long after the end of the First World War.
The aftermath of a Zeppelin raid on St Peter's Plain, Great Yarmouth. Zeppelin raids on the UK during WWI were initially effective in causing civilian casualties and damage, spreading fear and disrupting daily life. However, their impact diminished over time due to improved British air defenses, including anti-aircraft guns and fighter planes.
...played crucial roles in subsequent conflicts...
Technological progress in aviation during the Great War laid the foundation for the rapid evolution of military and civilian aviation in the 20th century.
The lessons learned from this conflict spurred the development of faster, more lethal aircraft in the following decades.
For example, the transition from biplanes to monoplanes and the introduction of metal airframes and more powerful engines revolutionized aviation.
These advancements played crucial roles in subsequent conflicts, such as the Second World War, where air superiority became a decisive factor.
The iconic photo of the infamous Hindenberg disaster (also known for bring used on the front cover of the rock band Led Zeppelin's first album in 1969): Although this event occurred many years after the end of the First World War, this photograph helps highlight the dangers associated with Zeppelins. The incident occurred on May 6, 1937, when the German airship LZ 129 Hindenburg caught fire while attempting to land in Lakehurst, New Jersey. The fire, fueled by the hydrogen gas used for lift, rapidly engulfed the airship, leading to 36 fatalities.
https://alexlimcolorization.blogspot.com/2019/05/colorized-photos-of-hindenberg-in.html
Death on the high seas
The seas during The First World War witnessed a dramatic escalation in naval warfare, characterized by the clash of increasingly powerful and technologically advanced vessels.
This maritime theater featured a deadly ballet of colossal dreadnoughts, heavily armored cruisers, swarms of nimble destroyers, and the lurking menace of stealthy submarines, forever altering the nature of naval conflict.
Dreadnoughts, epitomized by the British HMS Dreadnought, marked a paradigm shift in naval design.
These battleships boasted uniform gun calibers and armor plating, rendering previous warships obsolete.
The competition for dominance on the high seas fueled an arms race, with major powers constructing fleets of these behemoths, their imposing turrets and massive firepower symbolizing naval might.
The German High Seas Fleet on patrol during the First World War.
Armoured cruisers, such as the German SMS Scharnhorst, represented a bridge between the old and the new, combining significant firepower with protective armor. These versatile ships played crucial roles in surface actions and blockade efforts.
To counter the menace of enemy submarines, hordes of destroyers, agile and swift, patrolled the sea lanes.
These small warships were vital for escorting merchant convoys and engaging enemy subs in fierce anti-submarine warfare.
Three Austrian dreadnought battleships, 1917. Dreadnoughts were crucial in the First World War, revolutionizing naval warfare with their unprecedented firepower and armor. Their presence spurred an arms race, significantly impacting naval strategy and battles, such as the Battle of Jutland, showcasing their dominance and altering the course of maritime conflict.
...silent, marauding submarines revolutionized naval strategy...
Beneath the waves, the introduction of silent, marauding submarines revolutionized naval strategy.
The German U-boats, in particular, wreaked havoc on Allied shipping, implementing unrestricted submarine warfare.
Their torpedoes struck fear into the hearts of sailors as they hunted ever more vulnerable merchant ships or unwitting tankers, choking off vital supply lines and contributing to the tension that would eventually draw the United States into the conflict.
A German U-Boat sinking an allied merchant ship. The crew were evacuated and taken prisoner beforehand.
...the birth of a new era in naval warfare...
Technological advances in sonar and anti-submarine warfare played a critical role in the ongoing battle between submarines and surface vessels.
The deadly game of cat and mouse beneath the waves forced navies to adapt quickly and develop new tactics and technologies.
The naval developments during this conflict left an enduring legacy, shaping the course of naval warfare for generations to come.
The transition from battleships to aircraft carriers, the refinement of submarine technology, and the ongoing evolution of naval strategy all owe their origins to the crucible of this conflict.
In the end, the seas of the First World War witnessed not only the clash of steel and firepower but also the birth of a new era in naval warfare.
First World War Allied propaganda poster, reflecting the seriousness of the U-boat threat.
Olympic during WW1 when was pressed into service as troop transport. During the First World War, civilian ships were repurposed for military roles, serving as troop transports, hospital ships, and armed merchant cruisers. This adaptation maximized naval resources, supported logistical operations, and expanded the capacity for troop movements, medical care, and supply transport, crucially aiding the war effort and strategic operations.
Colorized by Daryl LeBlanc.
A worldwide conflict
The war soon transcended regional boundaries and became a truly global conflict, involving nations from various continents and impacting societies far beyond the European theatre where it originated.
The war quickly entangled major world powers.
European nations such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom were joined by nations from Asia, Africa, and Oceania, turning the conflict into a truly global affair.
A woman offers a flower to Indian soldiers fighting on behalf of the British Empire. Giving flowers to soldiers was a traditional sign of welcome and support.
Imperial War Museum
32 Colorized Images That Reveal The Horrors Of World War 1 (allthatsinteresting.com)
...experiencing the brutality of trench warfare...
The war's colonial dimensions drew in troops and resources from around the world. European powers, like France and the United Kingdom, called upon their colonies for support.
Soldiers from India, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among others, fought on distant fronts, experiencing the brutality of trench warfare and introducing a global perspective to the conflict.
Additionally, Africa became a theatre of war as European powers clashed over colonial territories.
Some of the men of the 369th infantry regimen from New York. The U.S. did not participate in the the First World War until late 1917. Before then, an American soldier named Harry Butters had faked his British identity so that he could help their armed forces in the war.
Later, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill wrote a memorial to Butters in the newspaper, writing "We realize his nobility in coming to the help of another country entirely of his own free will."
32 Colorized Images That Reveal The Horrors Of World War 1 (allthatsinteresting.com)
...the collapse of the Ottoman Empire reshaped the geopolitical landscape...
The war's economic impact rippled globally. Nations engaged in a race for resources, leading to disruptions in trade and economic systems worldwide.
The war's influence extended to the Middle East, where the collapse of the Ottoman Empire reshaped the geopolitical landscape.
The entry of the United States into the conflict in 1917 further amplified its global character, with American forces contributing significantly to the Allied effort.
Civilians in the firing line
The First World War had a profound impact on civilians and the home front, transforming daily lives and societies in unprecedented ways.
As the conflict escalated, the distinction between the battlefield and the home front blurred, as civilians became integral to the war effort.
A girl holds a doll next to soldiers' equipment in Reims, France.
https://mashable.com/archive/wwi-color-photos
Fernand Cuville/Galerie Bilderwelt/Getty Images
...challenged traditional gender role...
Economically, nations redirected resources towards military production, leading to shortages of essential goods. Rationing systems were implemented in many countries, limiting the availability of food, fuel, and other necessities.
Women played a crucial role in the workforce, taking on jobs traditionally held by men who were at the front. This shift challenged traditional gender roles and paved the way for increased women's participation in the workforce, laying the groundwork for future social changes.
Workers in a rubber factory in Lancashire, September 1918 as women across the country stepped up to fill the vacancies in vital industry due to the mass conscription of British men.
Mediadrumimages/Royston Leonard
...to cultivate a sense of unity among civilians...
The war brought forth new forms of propaganda, shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of nationalism.
Governments used posters, films, and other media to rally support for the war and to cultivate a sense of unity among civilians.
Anti-enemy sentiments led to discrimination against certain ethnic groups, particularly in countries with diverse populations.
A soldier surveys the damage to an unnamed town during the First World War. The fate of the residents is unknown.
80 Colorized World War I Photos Are Hard To Look At - Barnorama
...civilians were not only indirect victims but also direct targets...
The psychological toll on civilians was immense.
The constant threat of air raids, the loss of loved ones, and the general uncertainty created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety.
The concept of total war meant that civilians were not only indirect victims but also direct targets.
Bombings of civilian populations, notably in London, Paris, and other major cities, intensified the impact on non-combatants.
French refugee children during the First World War.
The war's aftermath left a legacy of grief and trauma. Families mourned the loss of millions of soldiers, and the wounded required long-term care. Societal structures were disrupted, and a generation of young men was forever altered by their experiences on the battlefield.
The butchers bill
By the time the First World War came to a merciful end, the world had changed beyond recognition.
It is estimated that around 40 million people—both military and civilian—became casualties of the conflict. Approximately 15 to 22 million of these were deaths, with 6 to 13 million of them being civilians.
Additionally, 23 million were wounded, many suffering life-altering injuries. The war also saw 2 million people die from disease, and a further 6 million were simply missing, presumed dead.
One-third of all military deaths were caused by the 1918 flu pandemic, which ravaged soldiers and civilians alike, and many deaths occurred while individuals were held as prisoners of war.
A soldier suffering from shellshock - one of many to fall victim during the duration of the conflict.
(1918) WWI veterans: shell shock sequels, war neurosis.[4k, 60fps, colorized] - YouTube
...the brutal realities of trench warfare...
The First World War was easily the deadliest conflict in human history up until that point. Battles such as the Somme and Verdun resulted in staggering losses, with over a million casualties at the Somme alone.
No longer was going to war seen as an adventure; the brutal realities of trench warfare, with its relentless artillery barrages and the ever-present threat of poison gas, shattered this romantic notion.
The Battle of Passchendaele exemplified the horror, with soldiers and civilians alike enduring unimaginable hardships.
...highlighted the vulnerability of civilian populations...
Civilians could no longer consider themselves safe from harm, as the war brought the fight to their doorsteps.
The Zeppelin raids on London and the bombings of Paris highlighted the vulnerability of civilian populations.
Wars were no longer assumed to be short, brief affairs; the prolonged stalemate and massive scale of the First World War showed that future conflicts could be drawn-out, devastating, and far-reaching.
Wounded Belgian soldiers receive care in an Antwerp hospital during the First World War. They were subsequently evacuated in buses as the Germans closed in on the city. Wounded soldiers during the conflict faced immense challenges, with millions suffering from severe injuries, amputations, and psychological trauma. Advances in medical care, such as triage, blood transfusions, and the use of antiseptics, improved survival rates but the long-term impact on veterans was profound and enduring.
https://www.historyplace.com/worldhistory/firstworldwar/ger-wounded-attended.htm
...it ultimately failed to stop the outbreak of the Second World War...
The war's end marked a profound transformation in global perspectives on conflict. Everything had changed.
The League of Nations would be formed in an attempt to prevent such a catastrophe from happening again, although it ultimately failed to stop the outbreak of the Second World War.
The socio-political landscape had shifted, and the experiences of the Great War left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of the world, influencing military strategy, international relations, and societal attitudes towards war for generations to come.
German medics tend a fallen soldier lying in a field of strawberries in Belgium during the First World War. As their casualties mounted, German soldiers reacted with increasing brutality toward the Belgian population. The First World War resulted in approximately 10 million military casualties, with soldiers suffering from wounds, disease, and the impact of new weapons technologies. These immense losses underscored the war's brutal nature and had lasting effects on nations and families.
https://www.historyplace.com/worldhistory/firstworldwar/ger-wounded-attended.htm
The end of the fighting
The climactic end of the Great War unfolded with the signing of the Armistice of Compiègne on the 11th of November, 1918.
This momentous event occurred in a railway carriage in the Compiègne Forest, symbolizing the exhaustion of nations and the collective resolve to end the unprecedented four-year conflict.
The armistice marked the collapse of the Central Powers, leading to significant political changes, including the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the establishment of the Weimar Republic in Germany.
At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the guns fell silent on the Western Front, bringing immense relief and hope for a lasting peace.
British troops, blinded by gas, assisting each other to the dressing station at Croisilles, France 21 August 1918.
...imposed severe terms...
However, the true aftermath of the war unfolded with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919.
Crafted at the historic Palace of Versailles, this treaty imposed severe terms on Germany, fundamentally reshaping the geopolitical landscape of Europe.
The punitive measures included significant territorial adjustments, such as the return of Alsace-Lorraine to France and the ceding of territories to Belgium, Denmark, and Poland.
...banning conscription, tanks, and military aircraft...
Additionally, Germany faced stringent military restrictions, limiting the size of its army to 100,000 troops and banning conscription, tanks, and military aircraft.
Hefty reparations were demanded, amounting to 132 billion gold marks (approximately $33 billion USD at the time), which plunged Germany into economic turmoil and political instability.
...shaped the course of the 20th century...
The end of the Great War, while signifying a cessation of hostilities, left a complex legacy of geopolitical tensions and economic challenges.
The harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles fostered resentment and a sense of injustice in Germany, sowing the seeds of future conflicts.
This period of turmoil and retribution ultimately shaped the course of the 20th century, leading to the rise of extremist ideologies and the outbreak of the Second World War.
The aftermath of the Great War highlights the intricate interplay between war, politics, and the long-term impact on global dynamics.
Further reading
The National Air and Space museum has information on technological developments during the First World War, as well as arange of other resources.
A useful and interesting explanation of the development and use of poison gas during the First World War.
A BBC article on the impact and development of the tank during the First World War.
A detailed and accessible website commemorating the Battle of Jutland - the most important naval battle of the First World War.
An article by the National WW1 Museum and Memorial on the US entry into the First World War.
The Armistice Memorial Museum, located in Compiegne, France, honors the end of the First World War with exhibits showcasing historical artifacts.
Stunning colour photos demonstrating how the First World War effected people from throughout the world.
The renowned Imperial War Museum has created a place to listen to those who lived through the horrors of the Great War.
The National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri, is dedicated to preserving the history and experiences of World War I through comprehensive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
Details the use of various poisonous gases, including chlorine, phosgene, and mustard gas, by both the Allies and Central Powers during WWI, highlighting their devastating effects on soldiers and the development of protective measures such as gas masks.
A concise and accessible overview of the First World War, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the conflict. The book covers key events, battles, and political developments, offering insights into the causes and consequences of the war. Kerr's narrative style and historical analysis help readers grasp the complexity of the 'Great War'.
The book provides a detailed and insightful analysis of the geopolitical, cultural, and diplomatic landscape that led to the outbreak of World War I. MacMillan explores the complex web of alliances, political decisions, and cultural factors that contributed to the tensions preceding the war.
A comprehensive and engaging account of World War I that delves into the multifaceted aspects of the conflict. Meyer offers a detailed examination of the war's origins, major battles, and the political dynamics that shaped the course of events. The book also explores the social, economic, and cultural impacts of the war on both the home fronts and the battlefields.
Known for his exceptional narrative skill, and in this book, he weaves a compelling and engaging account of the First World War. His storytelling ability makes complex military and political events accessible to a broad audience. Keegan brings a deep understanding of military strategy, tactics, and the experiences of soldiers on the battlefield. His analysis provides valuable insights into the military aspects of the war.
A meticulously researched and comprehensive account that skillfully combines military, political, and social aspects of the conflict, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the First World War. Stevenson's engaging narrative and thoughtful analysis make this book an authoritative and highly recommended resource for those seeking a detailed exploration of the war's complexities.
Jünger's memoir provides a deeply personal and vivid account of his experiences as a German soldier on the Western Front during the First World War. His writing is intense, capturing the raw emotions and brutal realities of war. As a frontline soldier, Jünger offers a firsthand perspective that provides readers with a unique insight into the life of a soldier during one of the most tumultuous periods in history.
Although a work of fiction, the novel provides a vivid and realistic portrayal of the harsh conditions and brutal realities of trench warfare on the Western Front. It offers insights into the daily lives of soldiers, their struggles, and the psychological toll of the war. Remarque's narrative delves into the emotional and psychological effects of war on individuals. It captures the trauma, disillusionment, and profound changes experienced by soldiers, offering a nuanced understanding of the human cost of conflict.
Dawn Knox's "The Great War" is a poignant collection of precisely 100 stories, each narrated in exactly 100 words, marking the centenary of WWI. With a concise 10,000-word count, the book's brevity doesn't compromise the impact of Knox's vivid prose. The carefully spaced stories, allow for reflection, creating a poetic, almost lyrical, experience. Embracing a spectrum of emotions, the tales capture the universal themes of home, camaraderie, and the stark realities of trench warfare, offering a profound exploration from the perspectives of English, French, and German soldiers.
The book presents firsthand accounts and narratives from individuals who lived through World War I, offering a direct and unfiltered perspective on the experiences of soldiers, civilians, and others affected by the war. The personal testimonies evoke the emotional and human aspects of the war, allowing readers to connect with the individuals who lived through this challenging period. The emotional impact helps to convey the toll of war on both a personal and collective level.
Colourisers
Sources:
www.instagram.com/julius.colorization/
Link of the Day: Colorized Photographs from WWI — Bird In Flight
https://vividmaps.com/the-great-war/
https://sites.google.com/a/asdk12.net/mr-welge-s-class/the-great-war---infographic-project
"Under Fire: The Story of a Squad" by Henri Barbusse, 1916.
https://klimbim2014.wordpress.com/
A.B.Cannon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhnfByPaupE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6ZmevfcGwA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtVSjb4sr-A
“The First World War”, John Keegan (2014)
https://airandspace.si.edu/stories/editorial/technology-world-war-i
https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/firsts-of-the-first-world-war
https://www.historycrunch.com/poison-gas-in-world-war-i.html#/
Elias Beck
Stephen Dowling www.bbc.com
https://www.reddit.com/r/HistoryPorn/comments/u78nbc/colorized_manfred_von_richthofen_the_red_baron/
C.J. von Dühren
http://www.sunnycv.com/steve/ww1/submarine.html
Imperial War Museum
https://allthatsinteresting.com/world-war-1-in-color#21
Talat Ahmed
Dr Eric Grove
Christopher Connell
https://armistice-museum.com/the-1918-armistice-clauses/
Kate Argyle, English Heritage
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-27517166
Mediadrumimages/Royston Leonard
https://mashable.com/archive/wwi-color-photos
Fernand Cuville/Galerie Bilderwelt/Getty Images
https://www.barnorama.com/80-colorized-world-war-i-photos-are-hard-to-look-at/
https://historylearning.com/world-war-one/the-home-front-1914-to-1918/propaganda-and-world-war-one/
https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/voices-of-the-first-world-war-life-on-the-home-front
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-elmAeX_4U
https://www.history.com/topics/world-war-i/world-war-i-history
https://www.theworldwar.org/learn/about-wwi/trench-warfare
Sabrina Imbler https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/verdun-battle-wildlife-refuge
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-31042472
Royal Air Force Museum
https://deanoworldtravels.wordpress.com/2016/03/05/the-dreaded-gas-warfare-of-world-war-one/
https://www.history.com/news/world-war-i-gas-chemical-weapons
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/360288038933718910/
Elias Beck https://www.historycrunch.com/tanks-in-world-war-i.html#/
https://www.reddit.com/r/ww1/comments/n9igi0/german_cavalry_colorized/
https://www.vintag.es/2016/12/29-incredible-colorized-photos-of.html
https://allthatsinteresting.com/world-war-1-in-color#3
https://alexlimcolorization.blogspot.com/2019/05/colorized-photos-of-hindenberg-in.html
https://www.historycrunch.com/airships-in-world-war-i.html#/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-27517166
https://www.history.com/news/u-boats-world-war-i-germany
Colorized by Daryl LeBlanc.
Patrick J. Kiger https://www.history.com/news/how-many-people-died-in-world-war-i
https://www.historyplace.com/worldhistory/firstworldwar/ger-wounded-attended.htm
Erin Blakemore https://www.history.com/news/germany-world-war-i-debt-treaty-versailles