Document 1: Total War A total war is a military conflict in which nations are willing to make any sacrifices necessary to
win. In a state of total war, a nation will mobilize, or make use of its total available military,
technology, and human resources to be victorious. In a state of total war, there are no limits to
the weapons used, the territory or combatants involved, or the goals. Total War is considered
the most extreme form of warfare because both civilians and soldiers are targets.
In addition to dedicating time and money to build new war technologies, European women at
home were mobilized to work outside of the home to replace men who went off to war,
Additionally, those at home were asked to make the sacrifice of rationing. Rationing was a
policy of strictly distributing food to ensure that soldiers had enough food. Sugar, meat, flour,
butter, margarine and milk were tightly controlled and families were urged to consume less.
During the war, propaganda posters were used to influence people's decisions and to increase
support towards the war effort.
1. What is the historical context that led to total war?
2. What is the purpose of this document?