The Lasting Legacy of WW1: Its Profound Cultural Impact on Society
The First World War was a major turning point in world history, with significant cultural impacts that continue to be felt today. From the many artists who emerged from the conflict, to the ways in which governments organized themselves in the aftermath of the war, the Great War left an indelible mark on modern culture. In this article, we’ll explore how WW1 has shaped our society and culture in profound ways that endure to this day.
Emerging Artists and Writers
The First World War was a time of great turmoil and upheaval, but it also saw the emergence of many artists and writers who would go on to define the cultural landscape of the 20th century. Poets such as Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, and Rupert Brooke all served in the war, and their poetry captured the horrors of trench warfare in a way that resonated deeply with the public. Similarly, writers like Ernest Hemingway, E.E. Cummings, and J.R.R. Tolkien all served in the conflict, and their experiences informed their writing in profound ways.
New Modes of Government
The First World War was also a time of significant change and upheaval in terms of government organization. The war saw the rise of centralized governments that were able to more effectively mobilize resources and manage the economy. This trend continued in the aftermath of the war, with many countries establishing centralized systems of government that endure to this day.
The Rise of Fascism
The First World War also had a darker impact on society, in the form of the rise of fascism in Europe. Many political movements that emerged in response to the conflict were deeply hostile to democracy and human rights, and their ideologies paved the way for the rise of fascist regimes in the 1930s and 1940s.
The Great War and Modern Art
The legacy of WW1 is also felt in the world of art and design. The war had a profound impact on modernist movements like Dadaism and Surrealism, which were characterized by their rejection of traditional cultural values. The destruction of the war gave rise to a nihilistic worldview that rejected established norms, and this attitude helped shape many of the key artistic movements of the 20th century.
The Continued Relevance of WW1
Despite the fact that the First World War ended over a century ago, its legacy continues to be felt in a wide variety of ways. From the ongoing political instability in the Middle East, to the continued influence of modernist art movements, the Great War has shaped the world in ways that we are only beginning to fully appreciate.
Conclusion
The impacts of WW1 on our cultural landscape are profound and far-reaching. This conflict helped give rise to many of the key artistic movements of the 20th century, and it also had a major impact on the way that governments organize themselves. However, the war’s legacy is not entirely positive, as it also paved the way for the rise of fascism and totalitarianism in the 1930s and 1940s. Overall, the Great War continues to be a major influence on our society and culture, and its impact will be felt for many years to come.
