16 World War I (1914–18)

Before you start

Main focus

World War I was one of the most important events of the twentieth century. It created enormous change in the nations that took part in it, including Australia.

Why it’s relevant today

Australians continue to draw on experiences in this war to locate their defining national characteristics. It is important, therefore, to study it closely.

Inquiry questions

• Why did World War I happen?
• What was Australia’s role?
• What was the war’s impact on Australian home front society?
• What were the after-effects of the war on Australia?

Key terms

• Armistice
• Attrition
• Bereavement
• Conscription
• Demobilisation
• Militia
• Pandemic
• Repatriate
• Stagflation
• Trench foot

Pronunciation

Significant individuals

• Archduke Franz Ferdinand
• John Simpson Kirkpatrick
• John Monash
• William Morris Hughes

Let’s begin

World War I changed the entire course of world history. In Australia’s case, it transformed the society. It unfolded as an enormous tragedy in which hundreds of thousands of Australian lives were directly affected and tens of thousands were killed. Within Australia, the war experience convulsed the home front, leading to serious division and conflict. After the war, much social mending was needed. The ANZAC legend was born and new definitions of Australian nationhood were proposed.