ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Recruitment to the British Army during the First World War

During the first world war, the British Army needed more soldiers to help fight in the war. They asked men from all over the country to join the army and help defend their country.

To get more people to join up, the government created posters and advertisements that showed how tough and brave soldiers were, and how important it was to protect the country. They wanted to make people feel excited about being a soldier, and to think that it was something they should be proud to do.

Young men were encouraged to join the army, even if they were still in school or had jobs, because the country needed them. They could even earn money by joining up, which was a good incentive for some people.

Recruiters would go around towns and cities, talking to people and asking them to sign up. They would talk about the adventure and thrill of being a soldier, and how they could make a difference to the war effort.

If they agreed to join, they would go through a medical examination to make sure they were healthy enough to be a soldier. If they were deemed fit, they would receive training, learning how to march, shoot, and work as part of a team.

Sadly, many young soldiers were killed or injured during the war. The country realized it wasn't just an adventure; it was also very dangerous. But the brave soldiers who joined up made a big difference to the outcome of the war, and they are remembered with honor and gratitude.