Naturally,

the common people do not want war.. but after all, it is the leaders of a country who determine the policy, and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, a fascist dictatorship, a parliament, or a communist dictatorship, voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is convince them they are being attacked and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country for danger. It works the same in every country.