Friedrich Meinecke Books

Here is a study, by a recognized master in the field of intellectual history, of the challenge put by Machiavelli to the idea that there is a universal moral law governing human behavior. Should the political leader act according to the maxim of "my country right or wrong," or should elites follow the principle of "let justice be done?" Friederich Meinecke, an acknowledged founder of cultural history as a field, follows the discussion of this theme from Machiavelli through such major figures as Richelieu, Frederick the Great, and Hegel, and presents conclusions of enduring significance.

Friedrich Meinecke's work explores the shift in Germany from cosmopolitanism to nationalism between the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, analyzing the connection between Prussia and the German nation. His insights have significantly impacted historical scholarship, showcasing a unique methodology that effectively combines ideas and politics. This translation makes a pivotal piece of German historical literature accessible to English readers, offering a deeper understanding of the evolution of German identity.

Written by noted German historian Friedrich Meinecke, "The Warfare of a Nation" examines the origins and conduct of World War I from a German perspective. Originally published in 1915, this work provides valuable insights into the military, political, and social forces that shaped this cataclysmic event.