Underage Soldiers in World War I

The video explores the phenomenon of underage boys enlisting in the British Army during World War I. Despite legal age restrictions, many boys joined by lying about their age, driven by motives like adventure and escaping harsh conditions. Recruitment officers often overlooked age discrepancies due to manpower needs. The video highlights societal attitudes, the impact of war on these young soldiers, and the eventual government response to bring them home. It concludes with a call to support the Simple History channel.

What was the legal age to enlist and serve overseas in the British Army during World War I?

• 16 to enlist, 17 to serve

• 18 to enlist, 19 to serve

• 17 to enlist, 18 to serve

• 19 to enlist, 20 to serve

Why were underage boys able to enlist in the British Army during World War I?

• Recruitment officers were paid per recruit

• They had fake birth certificates

• They were trained to fight from a young age

• They were given special permission by the government

How did some underage volunteers disguise their youth during enlistment?

• By wearing adult clothing

• By using fake IDs

• By wearing military uniforms

• By altering their birth certificates

What was the reaction of parents when their sons wanted to join the army?

• They were indifferent

• They always protested

• They were unaware of their intentions

• They often supported their decision

What was the outcome for underage soldiers at the Battle of Loos in 1915?

• They were all sent back home

• They were captured by the enemy

• They suffered significant casualties

• They were promoted for bravery

Who was the youngest boy soldier to fight at the Battle of the Somme?

• George Mayer

• George Cuthard

• Sidney Lewis

• Arthur Markham

What action did the War Office take in response to concerns about underage soldiers?

• They ignored the concerns

• They issued a directive to bring boys back home

• They increased the recruitment age

• They provided special training for young soldiers

Approximately how many boys under the age of 18 served in World War I?

• 500,000

• 250,000

• 750,000

• 100,000

What was the estimated fate of the underage soldiers who fought in World War I?

• None were affected

• All returned home safely

• Half were wounded, died, or taken prisoner

• Most were promoted

What was the impact of conscription on the number of underage soldiers?

• It reduced the number dramatically

• It led to more underage enlistments

• It had no effect

• It increased the number