Summary of The Origins of the First World War

The Origins of the First World War, written by V.R. Berghahn, provides an authoritative and comprehensive history of the road to war in 1914. It focuses on the diplomatic relationships between the European Great Powers, the growth of militarism and nationalism throughout the continent, and the accumulation of military armaments that contributed to a culture of enmity and suspicion. It assesses the ideas and decisions of those in power in the years before the conflict, and assesses the various actions, whether intentional or not, which helped move Europe closer to war. Throughout the book, Berghahn emphasizes the multifaceted nature of the causes behind The Great War, and the importance of exploring all sides of the argument. The book also contains analyses of the impact of the war on European politics, and its ramifications for the continent's social landscape.