War fatigue and disillusionment

Because of the deteriorating supply situation and the lack of staple foods, various ersatz products were used, such as ersatz coffee. The plain packages, supposedly of the same quality as ordinary coffee, found their way into homes throughout the Monarchy. As the war proceeded and the food crisis grew, there was a growing war fatigue amongst soldiers and civilians alike. The absolutism of war, censorship, militarisation of the economy and the shortages dampened the initial enthusiasm. It was replaced by economic and military exhaustion. Wounds, cold and hunger soon overshadowed the sense of duty and solidarity of the men and led to disillusionment amongst the troops.