What was one of the military technologies used during World War I that had a significant impact on warfare?

The use of flamethrowers during World War I marked a significant evolution in military technology and tactics, primarily because they introduced a new method of assault on entrenched positions. Unlike traditional weaponry, flamethrowers were designed for close combat and could project a stream of burning fuel at the enemy, creating fear and chaos on the battlefield. This weapon was effective in trench warfare, where soldiers were often confined to narrow spaces and could be easily overwhelmed by the intense heat and flames.

Furthermore, flamethrowers could clear out entrenched enemy positions that were heavily fortified, changing the dynamics of offensive and defensive tactics. The psychological impact of facing a flamethrower was profound, as it instilled fear among soldiers, which could demoralize them and impact their effectiveness in battle. The introduction of flamethrowers demonstrated the broader trend during World War I of technological advancements influencing military strategy, as armies sought any advantage they could gain in a brutal and largely static warfare environment.

In contrast, other options like transistors, television, and electric refrigerators did not play a role in the military context during World War I; they became relevant in much later periods or had civilian applications that did not affect warfare directly during that time.