FOR KING AND COUNTRY: The Role of Patriotism in Mobilisation in the First World War

1-248790

Explores the role of local elites in shaping patriotism and wartime mobilization in rural and urban Britain. A critical examination of the wartime role of the local elite as 'superintendents of patriotism'. Begins with an account of 'khaki fever' leading to 'moral panic' resulting from the attraction of military uniforms and a perceived need for elite guidance and control while expanding mobilization. These attempts to mobilize for military service met with limited success and 'humanitarian' mobilization in the of philanthropy was widespread. Shows the tensions between elites - landed gentry and urban professionals - and the local populations, rural (mostly) and urban. The study analyses orthodox views about mobilization, dissent, and domestic patriotism on the Home Front in the First World War and roles of local elites. Contains 12 mono illustrations.