1. Economic Hardship: The war led to a significant disruption in the global economy. Many countries experienced severe economic depressions and shortages of essential goods. Rationing of food, fuel and other resources became widespread.
2. Food Shortages: The war disrupted agricultural production and transportation. Food shortages were a major concern, especially in countries heavily dependent on imports. There was a general scarcity of basic food items, leading to increased prices and malnutrition.
3. Disease and Health Crisis: The war caused a devastating health crisis. Millions of people died due to diseases such as the Spanish flu, which ravaged the world in 1918-19. Poor sanitation, overcrowding and lack of proper healthcare contributed to the high mortality rate.
4. Displacement and Refugee Crisis: The war resulted in the mass movement of people. Millions were displaced from their homes due to military operations, ethnic cleansing and political persecution. Refugees flooded into neighboring countries, creating overcrowded camps with unsanitary conditions and inadequate food supplies.
5. Social Upheaval: The war brought about significant social changes. The traditional roles of women in society were redefined as many took up jobs traditionally held by men, who were at war. The war also led to the rise of labor movements and the decline of aristocracy.
6. Loss of Life: World war I resulted in an unprecedented loss of life. Millions of soldiers were killed or wounded in the trenches during battles that often turned into protracted stalemates. Civilians too were affected, suffering from aerial bombardments, artillery shelling and other acts of violence.
7. Traumatic Experiences: The war left deep psychological scars on those who fought and survived. Many soldiers returned home with post-traumatic stress disorder or "shell shock" as it was known then. The trauma endured during the war had a lasting impact on individuals and society as a whole.
8. Political Turmoil: The war led to the collapse of several empires and the redrawing of political boundaries. This resulted in the emergence of new nation states, border conflicts and a changed geopolitical landscape.
9. Industrialization and Technology: The war accelerated industrialization and technological advancement. Mass production techniques and new technologies were developed specifically for military purposes, which later found application in civilian industries.
In summary, World war I exacted a heavy toll on people around the world. The conditions during the war were marked by economic hardship, food shortages, disease, social upheaval, displacement and immense loss of life. The impacts of the war continued to shape societies and politics long after the fighting stopped.