This study reveals women's hitherto ignored lives as refugees and relief workers during the
First World War and shortly after. The focus is on coping with and changing the devastating
effects of war on civilians rather than the fighting of it. Wherever fighting took place
people fled from their homes or were trapped behind enemy lines. Most refugees were women and
children. While some came to Britain others remained in or near their country of origin. They
were helped sometimes under bombardment by Quakers and suffragists. The connection between
these women in humanitarian relief is explored together with the significance of imperialism
and national identity. Experience of charity work suffrage campaigning relief in previous
wars and personal friendship networks were all important. A geographical overview of these
wartime activities provides insights into European civilian experience. The ideological and
historical roots of relief work are traced and connections are made with the establishment of
new NGOs and the League of Nations. The book offers fresh empirical research and new
theoretical approaches to illuminate this significant but unexplored subject.
