Final answer:
World War I continues to affect our times through shaping international borders, influencing foreign policy issues, and fostering nationalism. The ramifications of the war's treaties and ideologies have had lasting impacts on global politics and societies. The 'Stab in the Back' myth in post-WWI Germany, for example, paved the way for future political extremism.
Step-by-step explanation:
World War I (WWI) has a lasting legacy that continues to affect the modern world, including current foreign policies. One of the most prominent effects is the reshaping of international borders and the emergence of new nations post-WWI, which has ongoing implications for diplomacy and conflict. The Treaty of Versailles, which concluded WWI, imposed heavy reparations on Germany, contributing to economic hardship and political unrest that eventually led to World War II. Nationalism, a potent force driving the conflict, remains a significant aspect of global politics today, both in unifying and dividing populations.
The foreign policy issues of the United States today, such as involvement in international alliances and maintaining global security, have roots in the decisions and experiences of WWI. The war illustrated the destructive potential of modern warfare, leading to a persistent pursuit of collective security and arms control in international relations. Furthermore, the war established principles of self-determination and reshaped public expectations of the government's role in societal issues, including industry regulation and equality movements, as seen with women and minority groups pushing boundaries during the war effort.
Lastly, the corrosive influence of the 'Stab in the Back' myth in Germany post-WWI set the stage for political extremism and the rise of ideologies that led to catastrophic consequences in the following decades. From the impact on the average citizen to the legacy of World War I, the effects of this global conflict are still discernible in contemporary society, politics, and international relations.