During the First World War, the monarchy quickly experienced a shortage of basic foodstuffs and coal, accompanied by a sharp rise in prices; in April 1915, a rationing system had to be introduced. Emperor Charles actively participated in the battles, and he and his entire family lived solely on wartime rations. Although 1918 marked the collapse of the monarchy, further tens of thousands of casualties, the onset of the Spanish flu, and immense suffering personally for Charles, he allowed a festive Te Deum to be held on December 31 for everything that this year brought. In response to objections, he said:
This year has been hard, but it could have been much worse. We cannot only receive good things from God's hand; we must be grateful for everything else, no matter how difficult and painful it is. Did this year not bring the long-awaited end of the war? And every sacrifice and every denial for peace is a justified and cheap price.
(Emperor Charles of Habsburg /1887–1922/)
