A Short History of the Great War

This compact yet thorough account takes listeners back to the summer of 1914, when the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand set a fragile Europe on fire. It unpacks the tangled web of alliances, rivalries, and nationalist aspirations that turned a regional crisis into a continent‑wide conflict. The narrative follows the diplomatic chessboard, highlighting the secret meetings at Potsdam and the bold demands that pushed Serbia and the great powers toward the brink.

Enriched with nineteen detailed maps, the work paints a vivid picture of shifting frontiers and troop movements, helping listeners visualize the scale of the struggle. Written just after the armistice, the author’s fresh perspective cuts through the flood of post‑war apologetics, offering a clear, balanced overview of the war’s early dynamics. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this guide provides a solid foundation for understanding how the Great War began.