War in 1984

          The revolution in Orwell's 1984 occurred shortly after the end of the second World War.  At this time, the whole world was incredibly vulnerable, and open to suggestion on how to prevent another catastrophe.  It was then that the Party could take power.  Although the Party came into power promising peace and an end to warfare, the three superstates never stopped fighting amongst themselves.

          Winston's job is to alter the past to suit the needs of the Party.  By changing the past of the wars, there is nothing to prove that any of them happened.  I think that it is entirely possible that the leaders of all three states make up the wars as it suits their needs, and to keep the citizens in check.  As it would be fatal to bring attention to the changing wars, no one would risk questioning the absence of reason behind the battles.

          I think that it is far more dangerous to try to suppress the memories of millions than it would be to leave them with some of the memories of war.  During the Hate Week, the speaker who was making a war speech changed the enemy (from Eurasia to Eastasia) mid-sentence.  I was baffled by the reaction of the crowd: instead of wondering at the sudden change, they convinced themselves that Goldstein and the Brotherhood had sabotaged the demonstration by posting anti-Eurasia décor all over the square.  
By keeping no ties with the country's allies, they are assuring that there will be no end to the warfare.


A/N: Thank you so much, Blogger, for completely deleting this the first time I posted it. Much appreciated!!~