Life on the Western Front and Nazi Germany

These flashcards cover key concepts and events related to life on the Western Front during WWI and the implications of Nazi rule in Germany, as well as the moral and strategic considerations surrounding the atomic bombings in WWII.

What was the general atmosphere experienced by soldiers in the trenches on the Western Front?

A mixture of boredom and uncertainty, discomfort and danger.

What types of attacks were soldiers on the front-line trenches particularly wary of?

Shell explosions, sniper fire, and poison gas attacks.

Why were the front-line trenches most active at night?

Attacks were most likely to occur after dark.

What kind of routine activities did soldiers engage in to cope with boredom in the trenches?

Smoking, playing cards, filling sandbags, cleaning latrines, or fetching supplies.

What physical conditions did soldiers face in the trenches due to weather?

Knee-deep freezing water from heavy rain and blistering heat during summer.

What was the main problem described by Sergeant Harry Roberts regarding trench foot?

Feet swelling to a massive size leading to potential amputation and extreme pain.

What was the significance of the 'over the top' command for soldiers during an attack?

It signified the launch of an assault across No Man's Land, often leading to high casualties.

What were the typical outcomes of the attacks during the Battle of the Somme?

Little ground gained, with significant loss of life, including 57,000 British casualties in one day.

What did the Nazis implement to support farmers in Nazi Germany?

Canceled farmers' debts and increased the price of farm produce.

What was one of the government's policies towards women under Nazi rule?

Sacked many female professionals, believing women should be housewives and mothers.

How did Nazi policies directly affect unemployment levels?

The Nazis restricted unemployment benefits, and workers on job schemes were paid less.

What did the Nazis do to boost military strength?

Recruited unemployed men into the army and heavily invested in military supplies.

What was the moral question surrounding the dropping of atomic bombs on Japan?

Whether the civilian casualties and devastation were morally justifiable in ending the war.

What were some hidden motives attributed to Truman for dropping the atomic bomb?

To assert military dominance, demonstrate power to the Soviet Union, or justify the expense of the bomb.

What long-term effects resulted from the atomic bomb explosions?

Radiation sickness leading to cancer, liver failure, and severe health issues in subsequent generations.