THESIS

Until World War II, the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, and Wales) relied on the willingness of young men to serve their country when there was no war. The tragedies of WWII would require a change in this policy. In 1945, after the war ended, the National Service Act was passed, compelling young men to enlist in the army during peacetime. The National Service Act ended in 1960, as a result of Cold War concerns. Today, a British movement wants to create another form of peacetime conscription, claiming that it is the responsibility of the people to serve their country even in times of peace. This issue demonstrates the importance of balancing a person’s responsibility to serve their country with their right to pursue their own path in life.

Warminster School of Infantry barrack room, 1951

National Army Museum