Two new weapon systems that were developed in the early 20th century were airplanes and submarines. Aircraft was first used in war in 1911, but it became widespread during the Great War (1914-18). Airplanes were first used for reconnaissance, and later as fighter planes. Submarine warfare also became important during WWI, mainly as a fight between German and Austro-Hungarian U-boats.
On the political front, Americans sought to expand their role in world affairs. World War 1 also led to the rise of the “Lost Generation.” This was a generation that had become disillusioned with the ideals and values of American consumer culture and political democracy.
The Bottom of the Heap. At the bottom of the social structure were slaves and farmers. Slavery became the fate of those captured as prisoners of war. In addition to being forced to work on building projects, slaves toiled at the discretion of the pharaoh or nobles.
