World War II Civilians and Soldiers: Crash Course European History

The video explores the concept of total war, focusing on World War II's impact on soldiers and civilians. It highlights the role of resources, propaganda, and gender roles, and discusses the severe famines in Leningrad and Bengal. The narrative emphasizes the importance of understanding the experiences of regular people and the dehumanization that leads to evil.

What role did the US Army play in reviving the popularity of 'The Great Gatsby' during World War II?

• They banned it, which increased its demand.

• They made a movie adaptation that became popular.

• They included it in Armed Services editions distributed to soldiers.

• They used it as a training manual for soldiers.

What was a common sentiment among Europeans towards World War II?

• Indifference to the conflict

• Reluctance due to past traumas

• Excitement for new opportunities

• Eagerness to join the war effort

How did soldiers often find motivation to continue fighting despite harsh conditions?

• By supporting and relying on their comrades

• By receiving constant supplies from home

• Through loyalty to their leaders

• By focusing on their country's ideology

What was a significant challenge faced by soldiers during World War II that is often overlooked in military history?

• Poor communication systems

• Insufficient weaponry

• Inadequate food supplies

• Lack of proper training

How did the line between civilian and military roles blur during World War II?

• Civilians were given military ranks.

• Civilians were often recruited as spies.

• Civilians were forced to join the military.

• Civilians could be informers, collaborators, or resisters.

What was one way governments tried to maintain civilian morale during the war?

• By reducing work hours

• Through art and propaganda

• Through public speeches

• By increasing food rations

How did Nazi and Soviet ideologies differ regarding women's roles during the war?

• Soviets promoted gender equality in jobs, while Nazis focused on domestic roles.

• Nazis allowed women in combat roles, while Soviets did not.

• Nazis encouraged women to join the workforce, while Soviets did not.

• Both ideologies kept women out of the workforce.

What was a major cause of the Bengal famine during World War II?

• Overpopulation

• Lack of agricultural technology

• British policies and grain removal

• Natural disasters

What was a common justification used by the British for removing grain from India during the Bengal famine?

• India had an excess of food supplies.

• The grain was needed for British soldiers.

• The grain was spoiled and unusable.

• The grain was to be sold for profit.

What lesson does the Bengal famine teach about large-scale famines?

• They are usually beneficial in the long run.

• They are unavoidable in times of war.

• They are often the result of human actions.

• They are always caused by natural events.