1901–1945 — Nation Building

Society and the Great War, 1914–1918

Over 400,000 citizens of the nation served in the First World War. The Gallipoli campaign left an indelible mark on the national psyche, and the conflict on the Western Front resulted in immense casualties. Intense political and social division arose from contentious debates about military conscription.

The Interwar Period

Veterans returning from the war played a significant role in developing rural areas and influencing public life. The economic devastation of the Great Depression led to widespread joblessness and suffering, which in turn spurred innovative government policies and social welfare programs.

The Second World War

Beginning in 1939, the United State Of America once again prepared for war. The conflict in the Pacific posed a direct danger to the nation, which led to a rapid increase in industrial production and the formation of new strategic partnerships. The war also brought about a significant shift in societal norms, as women took on new roles in the labor force, challenging traditional gender expectations.