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Explain why the impact of war on civilians changed in the period c1900-present - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 4
Explain why the impact of war on civilians changed in the period c1900-present. You may use the following in your answer: - conscription - evacuation You must als... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain why the impact of war on civilians changed in the period c1900-present - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
conscription
Answer
During the early 20th century, particularly during World War I and World War II, conscription had a profound impact on civilians. Mass conscription meant that a large segment of the population, including many young men, was drafted into military service. This led to significant demographic changes, as whole communities experienced the loss of males who were essential contributors to their families and local economies. Additionally, women began to fill roles traditionally held by men, changing societal norms regarding gender roles and labor.
Furthermore, the psychological impact of war on families left behind was substantial. Families endured the anxiety of not knowing the fate of their loved ones, fostering a culture of resilience but also leading to trauma that persisted long after the conflicts ended.
Step 2
evacuation
Answer
Evacuation became a prominent feature of civilian life during conflicts such as World War II. The systematic evacuation of children and vulnerable populations from urban areas targeted by air raids highlighted the war's direct impact on civilians. This mass relocation resulted in both physical and emotional upheaval, as families were separated, and children were placed in unfamiliar environments.
Moreover, evacuation led to a shift in community dynamics. In rural areas hosting evacuees, local populations had to adapt to influxes of outsiders, leading to tensions but also fostering bonds through shared experiences of wartime hardship. The cultural exchange that occurred often helped reshape post-war society.
Step 3
Use of Information of Your Own
Answer
In addition to conscription and evacuation, technological advancements during this period also reshaped the civilian experience of war. The introduction of air raids, artillery bombardments, and later, strategic bombings, transformed how war was fought and its immediate effects on civilian life. For example, the Blitz in London during World War II illustrated the vulnerabilities of urban centers, as civilians learned to cope with rationing, blackout conditions, and frequent bombings.
Overall, the impact of war on civilians evolved over the 20th century, reflecting changes in military strategy, societal norms, and technological innovations, all of which combined to create a more integrated and complex relationship between warfare and civilian populations.