How do you suppose soldiers could participate in such barbaric acts?

Barbaric acts of soldiers (mostly rape and murder of the civilian population) are never acceptable! But there might be a number of circumstances that might make it more probable that they happen. If soldiers have experienced a lot of brutality themselves, have been separated from their family for too long without any support, are unsure of their own life, and else have experienced a lot of stress, it might contribute to them not behaving like they normally would. Additionally, a group bonding might play a role (if they feel pressure to be accepted in the group of soldiers...)

Who it was like back then

It could be anything, recent improvements in technology/telecommunication/internet have increased the pace of globalization.generally, it has something to do with technology. globalization means that people around the world are brought together through technology which speeds things up. so maybe some of those options could be correct. : )