Military Revolutions and Ww1

The Convergence of Military Revolutions and its Contributions to World War 1

MAJ

ILE Phase II

February 2012

The most significant military revolution in the modern world era is World War 1. This war was a convergence of all previous military revolutions. The planning and execution of modern military operations have their roots in the lessons learned in World War 1. This is also true with the relationship of political and military leadership we see today. World War 1 changed the framework of war as a whole. The war produced a complex mix of tactical, organizational, doctrinal, and technological innovations that gave birth to a new approach to warfare. This concept of total war brought every aspect of society together for the single purpose of supporting the war effort.

In the years leading up to World War 1 there was an increased sense of nationalism that swept over Europe. This sense of nationalism was a cornerstone of conscription that provided the labor for the war effort. Pride in their respective nations drove millions of young men to serve in their respective militaries. Imperialism evoked national pride as Social Darwinism gave a sense of superiority to Europeans. The combination of these feelings led the Europeans to see it as their duty to bring civilization to the uncivilized world, primarily Africa. By the latter half of the 19th century, Great Britain and France controlled a large portion of Africa. Germany was late in the scramble for Africa as it had just united from various states in 1870. Africa offered many resources and possibilities to the colonial powers. Ore, diamonds, and a large labor pool expanded the wealth and imperial power exponentially of the colonizing states. This increase in wealth and resources aided Great Britain to increase its navy and strategic reach. Technological advances from the Industrial Revolution increased the efficiency and ability to make better, stronger, and more powerful ships, tools, and equipment....