Militarism facts for kids
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Militarism is an idea that says a country's society should be organized like its military. This means that things like discipline, strength, and military values are seen as very important for everyone. People who believe in militarism are called militarists.
Militarists believe that a strong military is good for a country. They think that the rules and training found in the military can help make a society better. This way of thinking can influence many parts of life, including business, government, education, and even entertainment.
Militarism is closely connected to militarization, which is when a country builds up its military power. Countries that follow militarist ideas often have a very strong military. In these societies, the military might even run the government or have a lot of power over it.
Contents
What is Militarism?
Militarism is a belief system where military strength and ideals are highly valued. It suggests that a country's culture, system, and people should be organized to be strong and disciplined, much like an army.
Key Ideas of Militarism
Militarists often focus on several main ideas:
- Discipline: This means following rules and training strictly. Militarists believe that discipline makes people and society stronger.
- Strength: They think a powerful military is essential for a country's safety and success.
- Nationalism: Militarism is often linked to strong feelings of loyalty and pride in one's own country.
- Order: Militarists believe that a society organized like the military will be orderly and efficient.
Militarism in History
Throughout history, many countries have shown signs of militarism. Here are a few examples:
Ancient Sparta
Sparta was a famous city-state in Ancient Greece. It is a great example of a militarist society.
- From a young age, Spartan boys were trained to be soldiers.
- Their entire society was focused on military strength and discipline.
- Spartan citizens were expected to be brave and loyal warriors.
Prussia in the 19th Century
Prussia was a powerful kingdom in Europe during the 19th century. It became a leading part of what is now Germany.
- Prussia had a very strong and well-trained army.
- Military leaders and values had a big influence on the government and daily life.
- Even civilian politicians, like Otto von Bismarck, sometimes wore military uniforms to show their support for military culture.
Modern Examples of Militarism
In modern times, some countries still show strong militarist tendencies.
- North Korea: This country is often seen as a modern example of a militarized society. The military plays a huge role in its government and people's lives.
- Other Nations: While not fully militarist, some countries hold large military parades or have strong military influence in their politics.
Militarism and Society
When a society is militarized, it means the military has a lot of power and influence.
- Sometimes, military leaders might even be the head of state (the country's leader).
- Military values, like obedience and readiness, can become important for everyone.
- This can affect how people are educated, how businesses are run, and even the types of entertainment people enjoy.
Images for kids
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Prussian (and later German) Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, right, with General Helmuth von Moltke the Elder, left, and General Albrecht von Roon, centre. Although Bismarck was a civilian politician and not a military officer, he wore a military uniform as part of the Prussian militarist culture of the time. From a painting by Carl Steffeck
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Otto von Bismarck, a civilian, wearing a cuirassier officer's metal Pickelhaube
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Militarism in Nazi Germany
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Military parade in India
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Japanese march into Zhengyangmen of Beijing after capturing the city in July 1937
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Large nuclear weapons stockpile with global range (dark blue)
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Military parade during Republic Day celebrations in Ankara
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Members of the Venezuelan armed forces carrying Chávez eyes flags saying, "Chávez lives, the fight continues".
See also
In Spanish: Militarismo para niños
