Why did Australia go to the western front?

In 1914, the Australian government pledged troops for the First World War. From August 1914, the First Australian Imperial Force (AIF) embarked for the Middle East, where it seized German New Guinea and fought in the Gallipoli campaign. In France, the AIF fought near Amiens and in the Ypres sector, and helped to repulse the German Spring Offensive of 1918. More than 100,000 Australian soldiers died during World War I, almost half of the deaths occurred during the final year of the war, 1918.

Here are the reasons why the Australian Imperial Forces went to the Western Front:

1. Support the British Empire: Australia was a part of the British Empire and felt obligated to support its ally in the war.

2. Economic motives: Australia wanted to secure its trade routes and protect its economic interests in the region.

3. Imperial expansionism: Australia was also motivated by a desire to expand its influence and territories in the Pacific region.

4. Military pride and prestige: The Australian government and military leaders believed that fighting on the Western Front would demonstrate Australia's military prowess and enhance its international standing.

5. Recruitment and patriotism: The Australian government actively recruited soldiers, appealing to their sense of patriotism and duty to the British Empire. Many Australians were inspired by the fighting spirit and camaraderie of their fellow soldiers.

6. Calls for conscription: As the war continued and casualties mounted, there were growing calls for conscription in Australia. The Australian government eventually implemented mandatory military service in 1916.

The decision to send troops to the Western Front was a significant moment in Australian history and had profound consequences for the nation. The Australian soldiers fought bravely and made valuable contributions to the war effort, but the conflict also took a heavy toll on the Australian population and left a lasting legacy of remembrance and commemoration.