New York Times Current History: The European War, Vol 1, No. 1 From the Beginning to March, 1915, With Index

A snapshot of the first two years of the Great War unfolds through a lively mix of essays, speeches and letters from the era’s most recognizable voices. Readers hear George Bernard Shaw’s sharp commentary, H. G. Wells’s speculative warnings, and Rudyard Kipling’s stark reflections, each framed by the pressing concerns of a world suddenly at war. The collection also presents diplomatic dispatches and official statements that reveal how governments tried to justify their actions to restless publics.

Beyond the famous literary names, the volume gathers thoughtful pieces from philosophers, scientists and journalists who grapple with the moral and strategic questions raised by the conflict. Contributions from European and American thinkers illustrate the split between condemnation and patriotism, offering a nuanced picture of how ordinary citizens and elite intellectuals interpreted the unfolding drama.

Compiled by a leading newspaper, the work includes a detailed index that makes it easy to trace specific topics or personalities. Listening to these contemporary perspectives gives a vivid sense of the urgency, confusion and hope that defined the early months of a war that reshaped the world.