The Homefront During World War 1

What was the purpose of the Defence of the Realm Act (DORA) passed by Great Britain in 1914?

To authorize the government to take necessary actions for the war effort and protect the country.

What significant legislation did Australia pass in October 1914 related to the war effort?

The War Precautions Act.

What were some restrictions imposed by the War Precautions Act in Australia?

Censorship of newspapers, detaining enemy aliens, outlawing strikes, and controlling the nation's newspapers.

What was a common government action regarding censorship during WW1 in both Great Britain and Australia?

Censorship of newspapers and correspondence related to military matters.

What was the impact of rationing in Great Britain and Australia during WW1?

Limits on food and clothing to prioritize resources for the war effort, leading to scarcity.

What was the process of repatriation for soldiers after WW1?

Soldiers were slowly returned home, often waiting up to 12 months and facing challenges such as post-traumatic stress.

What role did women play in the repatriation of soldiers after WW1?

Women often became primary caregivers for physically or mentally injured men.

What was established in Australia to support returning servicemen after WW1?

A Repatriation Department and Returned Servicemen Leagues.

How did volunteer organizations contribute to the war effort in both Great Britain and Australia?

They were largely fueled by women, with many groups formed to support the war effort.

What was the significance of the Red Cross during WW1 in both countries?

It was a major volunteer organization, with thousands of volunteers in both Great Britain and Australia.

What was a notable difference in conscription between Australia and other British Empire nations during WW1?

Australia never introduced conscription, despite government attempts.

What roles were British women allowed to take in the Armed Forces during WW1?

They could work as doctors and nurses.

What limitations did Australian women face regarding service in the Armed Forces during WW1?

They were confined to nursing roles and volunteer organizations.

What was the role of women on the home front in Great Britain during WW1?

They expanded to work in munitions factories, public transport, and other essential services.

How did propaganda function in both Great Britain and Australia during WW1?

Propaganda departments generated messages to encourage enlistment and support for the war effort.

What was the purpose of the White Feather movement in Great Britain?

To encourage men to enlist in the military.

What was a significant difference in the roles of women in the war effort between Great Britain and Australia?

Women in Great Britain were more actively involved in various roles compared to Australian women.

What was the impact of the Spanish Flu outbreak in 1919 on returning soldiers?

It was exacerbated by the movement of men around the globe following the end of fighting.

What was the general attitude towards soldiers returning from WW1 regarding their mental health?

There was a lack of understanding of post-traumatic stress and combat fatigue.

What did the Australian government provide to some returning servicemen to help them restart their lives?

Plots of Crown farmland.

What was the historical significance of WW1 for women in British society?

It became a significant catalyst for changing the position of women in society.

What were the intended messages of propaganda posters during WW1?

To encourage enlistment and promote support for the war effort among civilians.

What was the general outcome of the repatriation process for soldiers after WW1?

It was not entirely successful, with many facing challenges reintegrating into society.

What was the role of censorship in maintaining public morale during WW1?

To control information and prevent the spread of rumors that could undermine the war effort.

Conscription

compulsory enlistment for state service, typically into the armed forces.

Conscription debate

- the debate arose because the PM Billy Hughes, who initially promised not to introduce conscription, toured the Western Front and as a result changed his mind, believing conscription was vital to continue the war effort

When were the two conscription referendum in Australia?

1916 and 1917

Generally, how did Australian soldiers on the Western Front vote in the conscription referendum?

They voted for referendum

Causes of the conscription referendum in Australia

Lack of enlistment, Australia promising England 50,000 more men, a War Census that showed 600 000 eligible men had not enlisted.