Final answer:
Long wars with high casualties have historically led to a change in civilian and soldier opinions of their governments, often resulting in diminished enthusiasm and increased criticism. This was evident in the American Civil War, World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War, where public opinion shifted as the human and material costs of the wars became apparent.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a war extends longer than anticipated, the initial enthusiasm often gives way to fatigue and despair. This change in sentiment stems from mounting casualties, which can alter opinions about government efficacy and trustworthiness. During the American Civil War, mass mobilization and high casualty rates substantially affected life in both the Union and the Confederacy. Similarly, in World War I and World War II, the enormous loss of life and the strain on resources led to changes in public opinion. Soldiers and civilians alike became increasingly aware of the war's toll and the costly nature of victory, leading to a shift in perspectives about their governments.
For example, in World War I, the aftermath of the war saw over 76% of French and Russian soldiers becoming casualties, which caused a profound demographic impact. These staggering figures, coupled with the sheer destruction of infrastructure and the loss of a generation of young men, significantly affected the civilian populace's view of their governments. The notion of a war of attrition, where victory meant outlasting the enemy, took a psychological toll on both civilians and soldiers as they grappled with the human cost.
World War II epitomized the impact of warfare on civil opinions. With immense civilian support, American society became invested in the war effort, with everyone taking on roles that supported the fight. However, the heavy casualties on all sides, including the deaths of 416,000 Americans, ultimately led to a disconnect between the government and its people, most notably seen in the responses to the Vietnam War. The division between those who believed the war was lost due to a lack of civilian support and those who protested its inhumane execution illustrates the deep fissures wars cause in societies.