
The opening frames a bold reassessment of Germany’s wartime ambitions, arguing that its failure to master “civilised” psychology was intentional, not accidental. Instead of meddling in the delicate balance of power over Europe, the narrative follows a patient, covert campaign aimed at the Ottoman Empire—viewed not as a frail “Sick Man” to be propped up, but as a potential powerhouse to serve German aims. Through a mix of military advisors, generous financial incentives, and quiet diplomacy, the book shows how Berlin cultivated a relationship that would reshape the strategic landscape on the eve of World War I.
From this foundation the author unpacks the intricate web of rival powers, the shifting perceptions of Turkey, and the hidden calculations that set the stage for a conflict far larger than any single nation imagined. Listeners are drawn into a meticulously researched portrait of geopolitical strategy, where money, military expertise, and subtle influence outmaneuver traditional diplomatic discourse. The first act offers a compelling glimpse into the covert maneuvers that defined an era, inviting deeper exploration of the forces that propelled history toward a global war.
Language
en
Duration
~50 minutes (48K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Chuck Greif (This file was produced from images available at The Internet Archive)
Release date
2013-07-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1867–1940
Best known for the witty Mapp and Lucia novels and for deliciously unsettling ghost stories, this prolific English writer had a sharp eye for social comedy. His work moves easily between drawing-room satire, memoir, biography, and the supernatural.
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