The 19th century was marked by mass industrialization and the rise of imperialism. Various civilian inventions were adapted for military use to gain an advantage over other great powers. The rise of the locomotive allowed for the rapid and efficient transportation of large quantities of soldiers and equipment to the front. The telegram overcame distances and enabled quick communication between distant commands and their armies. Airplanes and airships brought exceptional reconnaissance power. Steam turbines increased the speed and power of ships, ushering in the era of dreadnought-class battleships. Canned food extended the shelf life of provisions, preventing mass starvation and easing the logistics of long military campaigns. Advances in medicine and against malaria reduced soldier mortality, opening the door for the great powers to penetrate the interior of Africa and other tropical regions. Film's popularity brought about the rise of propaganda as an effective medium for spreading ideals and beliefs. The camera eliminated all idealization of war, showing the public the grim reality of the front.
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