World War I: Its causes and effects

During the late 1800's and early 1900's most European nations were experiencing dramatic changes, socially and economically. Populations were rising and falling, social classes were shifting, and new political leaders were eager to make their mark on the world. As these changes were forced inevitably upon the nations, the balance of European powers became altered. Westernized countries rapidly grew more powerful then unindustrialized countries, leaving these countries with weaker armies open to attack. The changes …

…the trenches. Aside from enemy injuries, disease wrought a heavy toll (Microsoft, Encarta. "Trench Warfare"). The battles and interactions which took place on Western Front played a prominent role in the outcome of the war. With new technology and trench warfare, WWI became known as the first real total war. The methods and weapons used in the western front had a significant effect in the development of future warfare within the nations across the world.