War Breaks Out and the Home Front
When Serbia rejected Austria's demands, Austria declared war on 28th July 1914. The alliance system kicked in like dominoes falling - Germany backed Austria, so Germany asked Belgium for permission to march through and attack France. Belgium refused, but Germany invaded anyway, causing Britain to declare war on Germany.
Back in Britain, the home front changed dramatically. At first, the government relied on volunteers to join the army, but by 1916 they needed conscription (forced military service), starting with unmarried men. This created massive labour shortages.
Women stepped up in incredible ways, taking over jobs previously done only by men. They became bus conductors, railway workers, shop assistants, factory workers, and even policewomen. The Women's Land Army formed in 1917 to replace male farm workers, whilst others worked in dangerous munition factories making weapons and ammunition.
War also came to British soil through bombing raids. German aircraft and zeppelins brought terror from the skies - in 1917, fourteen bombers attacked London in broad daylight, showing that civilians were no longer safe from warfare.
Did You Know? WWI was the first war where civilians at home faced direct attack from enemy aircraft!