5 Fascinating World War 1 Facts That You Might Not Know

World War 1, also known as the Great War, was a global war that lasted from 1914 to 1918. It was one of the deadliest conflicts in history, with over 16 million people losing their lives. In this article, we bring to you five fascinating facts about World War 1 that you might not know.

The Trench Rats Were Heroes

Trench warfare was one of the defining features of the Great War, and the soldiers who fought in the trenches had to endure horrific living conditions. One of the most dangerous and ubiquitous pests in the trenches was the common brown rat. However, these rats turned out to be heroes! They helped soldiers by alerting them to incoming enemy soldiers and gas attacks. The rats became so important that soldiers even kept them as pets.

Women Played Vital Roles in the War

Although women were not allowed to fight in the war, they played vital roles in the conflict. They worked in munitions factories, nursing injured soldiers, and serving as volunteers in various organizations. Women also took up jobs that were considered ‘men’s jobs’ before the war and proved their worth. The war changed people’s attitudes towards women, and it played a significant role in the women’s suffrage movement.

Military Aviation Was Born During the War

Military aviation was born during the Great War. In 1914, airplanes were not considered essential in warfare, but as the war progressed, their use became indispensable. Airplanes were used for reconnaissance, bombing enemy positions, and delivering supplies. Pilots were treated as heroes and had to be young, fit, and brave.

Christmas Truce of 1914

One of the most extraordinary moments in the Great War was the Christmas truce of 1914. On Christmas Eve, British and German soldiers put down their weapons and climbed out of their trenches to celebrate Christmas together. They sang carols, exchanged gifts, and even played football. This spontaneous truce lasted for two days before the fighting resumed.

Animals Were Used Extensively in the War

Animals played a vital role in the Great War. Horses were used to transport supplies, artillery, and soldiers. Dogs were used as messengers, sentries, and to sniff out enemy soldiers hiding in the trenches. Pigeons were also used as messengers. Carrier pigeons were able to fly up to 60 miles per hour and could deliver messages within a matter of hours.

In conclusion, the Great War was a period of immense sadness, bravery, and heroism. These fascinating facts are just a glimpse into the harsh reality of what the soldiers had to endure. The war had a profound impact on the course of history and changed the world in ways that we still feel today.

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