Total War of WWI & WWII

Definition

Total War refers to a conflict in which a nation mobilizes all its resources—economic, political, and social—to achieve complete victory over the enemy. In both World Wars, this concept transformed the nature of warfare as entire societies were involved, leading to widespread destruction and significant changes in military and civilian life, impacting post-war politics and social structures in Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Total War resulted in governments taking control of the economy to prioritize war production, often through measures like rationing and conscription.
2. The civilian population became direct targets in both World Wars, with bombings of cities and infrastructure aimed at demoralizing the enemy and disrupting their capabilities.
3. Women entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers during Total War, taking on roles traditionally held by men who were fighting, which altered societal norms.
4. Total War blurred the lines between combatants and non-combatants, leading to atrocities such as genocides and mass civilian casualties that changed international law regarding warfare.
5. The consequences of Total War significantly influenced post-war policies, including the establishment of international organizations like the United Nations aimed at preventing future conflicts.

Review Questions

• How did Total War change the role of civilians in WWI and WWII?
  • Total War transformed civilians from passive supporters to active participants in the war effort. With entire societies mobilized, civilians were engaged in production roles, contributing to war materials, while also facing direct attacks that made them targets. This shift required governments to manage public morale through propaganda, altering perceptions of warfare and resulting in significant societal changes that would influence post-war recovery.
• Analyze how Total War contributed to changes in military strategies during WWI and WWII.
  • Total War necessitated the development of new military strategies that emphasized rapid mobilization and resource allocation. Strategies like Blitzkrieg showcased how coordinated attacks could exploit weaknesses in enemy defenses by using air support alongside ground forces. This approach highlighted a shift towards more aggressive tactics aimed at achieving quick victories, reshaping conventional military thought for future conflicts.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Total War on European society and international relations after WWII.
  • The long-term effects of Total War profoundly reshaped European society and international relations post-WWII. Societal changes included a redefinition of gender roles due to women's participation in the workforce during wartime. Internationally, the devastation led to a desire for lasting peace, resulting in organizations like the United Nations. The experience of Total War also prompted discussions around human rights and laws of warfare, influencing how future conflicts would be managed on a global scale.

Related terms

Blitzkrieg:

A military strategy employed by Germany during WWII characterized by fast and coordinated attacks using air power and ground troops to quickly overwhelm opponents.

Propaganda:

Information, often biased or misleading, used to promote a political cause or point of view, heavily utilized during both World Wars to maintain public support and morale.

Home Front: The civilian sector of a nation at war, focusing on the production of war materials and the social changes that occur as societies shift to support wartime efforts.