Expectation: The Great War was anticipated to be a quick and decisive conflict, similar to previous wars. Many believed that the conflict would be resolved within months.
Reality: The war turned into a protracted and deadly stalemate. The use of advanced weaponry and trench warfare made it difficult for either side to gain a significant advantage, leading to prolonged battles and heavy casualties.
2. Trench Warfare:
Expectation: Battles were expected to be fought in open fields, with cavalry charges and traditional infantry maneuvers.
Reality: The war saw the widespread adoption of trench warfare, where soldiers lived and fought in a network of trenches and dugouts. This form of warfare was characterized by intense hand-to-hand combat, psychological stress, and disease.
3. Total Warfare:
Expectation: Wars were primarily fought between professional soldiers, and civilians were largely unaffected.
Reality: The Great War marked the beginning of total warfare, where entire societies and economies were mobilized for war efforts. Civilians faced food shortages, rationing, and industrial labor demands.
4. Civilian Casualties:
Expectation: Civilian casualties were expected to be limited, as the war was seen as a conflict between armies.
Reality: The war witnessed unprecedented levels of civilian casualties. Aerial bombings, artillery barrages, and starvation claimed millions of civilian lives.
5. Chemical Warfare:
Expectation: Chemical weapons were not widely anticipated or considered to be a significant threat.
Reality: Both sides used chemical weapons, such as chlorine and mustard gas, causing severe injuries, blindness, and even death among soldiers and civilians.
6. Global Scale and Destruction:
Expectation: The Great War was initially perceived as a regional conflict primarily involving European nations.
Reality: The war had a global impact, drawing in soldiers from colonies and overseas territories. The conflict resulted in the destruction of cities, towns, and infrastructure on an unprecedented scale.
7. Psychological Impact:
Expectation: The war was anticipated to be a glorious and heroic experience, with soldiers eager to serve.
Reality: The war had a devastating psychological impact on soldiers and civilians alike. The prolonged exposure to violence, trauma, and loss led to widespread psychological disorders, including shell shock and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The Great War shattered many of the pre-war expectations and illusions. It revealed the horrors and consequences of modern warfare, leading to a deep sense of disillusionment and introspection in society.