The War of Idealists? Nationalism and Propaganda Between 1914-1916 in the Romanian Kingdom
The War of Idealists? Nationalism and Propaganda Between 1914-1916 in the Romanian Kingdom

Summary/Abstract: Two years after the beginning of the Great War, the European nations were on the verge of collapse. Millions of deceased, wounded and declared missing, financial and human resources almost depleted, epidemics, famine, deportation of civilians, all realities requiring a re-evaluation of military actions. Reason enough for the two opponents to start a real diplomatic battle in the purpose of attracting new allies. In this context, in August 1916, Romania joins the war on Entente’s side. The destructive face of war, mirroring trauma on the battlefields contrasted with the euphoric attitude of the Romanians. An analysis of the Romanian society, focusing on nationalism and national consciousness, can lead to a possible satisfying answer to the issue raised to debate. This is a nationalism based on the romantic ideals of the 19th century and on the ever more aggressive propaganda sustained by the political factors.

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