The First World War

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The First World War transformed the modern world, abruptly ending the relative peace of the Victorian era and unleashing the horrors of mechanized warfare and mass death. It also introduced ideas that shaped contemporary society, such as modernism in the arts and radical economic and social theories, ultimately undermining faith in rationalism and liberalism that had prevailed since the Enlightenment. John Keegan, a distinguished military historian, aims to provide a definitive account of this conflict, exploring how a civilization at its peak could descend into such devastation. He delves into the failed diplomatic efforts among Europe's leaders, revealing how a bilateral dispute escalated into a continent-wide war. Keegan's narrative focuses on the military aspects, vividly recounting legendary battles like Verdun, the Somme, and Gallipoli, while analyzing the strategies influenced by geography and technology. He also highlights the human side of the conflict, portraying key figures such as Tsar Nicholas II and generals like Haig and Hindenburg, while expressing deep sympathy for the countless unnamed soldiers whose sacrifices went unrecognized. By war's end, three major empires had collapsed, and the widespread devastation reshaped Europe, leaving lasting impacts on its politics and culture. Keegan's comprehensive account is poised to become a classic in world history.