Q. No. 5. According to Rudyard Kipling, “however the world pretends to divide itself, there are only two divisions in the world today human beings and Germans”. In the light of this statement, was the British policy in the First World War justified or not? Comment.

British Policy in the First World War: A Justification Analysis

Introduction

Rudyard Kipling’s statement reflects the intense sentiment and division of the time, particularly during the First World War. He suggests that, despite different nationalities, the world ultimately divides into two groups: human beings and Germans. This statement underscores the perception of Germany as the primary enemy during the war. This analysis will evaluate whether the British policy during the First World War was justified.

Context of the First World War

1. Causes of the War

Rising Tensions: Nationalism, militarism, and colonial rivalries contributed to rising tensions in Europe.

Alliance System: The complex web of alliances created a situation where a conflict involving one nation could escalate quickly.

2. Britain’s Role

Defending Allies: Britain entered the war to defend Belgium, whose neutrality was violated by Germany, and to support its allies, including France and Russia.

Global Empire: Britain’s extensive empire meant that it had interests around the world, making it crucial to respond to aggression.

Justification of British Policy

1. Defense of Sovereignty

Protection of Belgium: Britain had a treaty obligation to protect Belgian neutrality. Germany’s invasion justified Britain’s involvement.

European Balance of Power: The British policy aimed to maintain the balance of power in Europe. A dominant Germany could threaten British interests.

2. Response to Aggression

German Militarism: Germany’s aggressive military tactics, including unrestricted submarine warfare and the sinking of civilian ships, posed a direct threat to British citizens and commerce.

Threat to Democracy: Britain viewed itself as a defender of democracy against autocratic regimes like Germany.

Criticism of British Policy

1. Propaganda and Sentiment

Demonization of Germans: The portrayal of Germans as the enemy created intense nationalism, sometimes leading to a lack of nuanced understanding of the conflict.

Impact on Civilians: The war led to significant loss of life and suffering, raising questions about the justification of such a brutal conflict.

2. Long-term Consequences

Aftermath of the War: The punitive measures imposed on Germany after the war contributed to future tensions and the rise of extremist movements, suggesting that the policy may not have been sustainable in the long run.

Personal Opinion

In my view, while Britain’s involvement in the First World War can be justified based on the principles of defending sovereignty and responding to aggression, the intensity of the demonization of Germans reflected in Kipling’s statement may not have been justified. The focus on a binary division oversimplified a complex situation and contributed to long-lasting animosities. A more diplomatic approach could have potentially mitigated the conflict and its devastating aftermath.

Conclusion

The British policy during the First World War was largely justified based on the context of defending alliances and national sovereignty. However, the simplistic division of the world into “human beings and Germans” reflects a mindset that may have hindered efforts for peace. Ultimately, while the immediate reasons for war were valid, the long-term effects of the conflict raise important questions about the narratives we construct in times of crisis.