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Catastrophe 1914
704 pages, 2014
From the acclaimed military historian, a history of the outbreak of World War I: the dramatic stretch from the breakdown of diplomacy to the battles—the Marne, Ypres, Tannenberg—that marked the frenzied first year before the war bogged down in the trenches.
In Catastrophe 1914, Max Hastings gives us a conflict different from the familiar one of barbed wire, mud, and futility. He traces the path to war, making clear why Germany and Austria-Hungary were primarily to blame, and describes gripping clashes in the West where French soldiers marched into battle in uniforms of red and blue with flags flying and bands playing.
In August, four days after 27,000 French soldiers died in a single day on the battlefield, British forces fought an extraordinary holding action against German oncoming forces.
In Catastrophe 1914, Max Hasting takes us on a journey to explore the intricate details of World War I. He shows us that the war was not just a simple conflict between two sides, but a complex web of alliances, politics, and strategies. It's a great read if you want to dig deeper into the history of the Great War.
Hasting emphasizes the crucial role of leadership during the war. He shows us how the decisions made by leaders, both good and bad, had a significant impact on the course of the war. If you're interested in leadership and decision-making, this book is a must-read.
One of the most striking aspects of Catastrophe 1914 is the way Hasting portrays the human cost of the war. He doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of war and the immense suffering it caused. It's a sobering reminder of the devastating effects of conflict.
In his book, Hasting highlights the importance of strategy in warfare. He shows us how strategic decisions, or lack thereof, can turn the tide of a war. If you're into military strategy, you'll find this book fascinating.
Catastrophe 1914 doesn't just focus on the war itself, but also its aftermath. Hasting explores the long-lasting effects of the war, from political changes to societal shifts. It's a great way to see how a single event can shape the course of history.
Quotes 5
Max Hastings's 'Catastrophe 1914' is a masterpiece, a narrative of the first year of World War I that is both gripping and deeply researched. It's a must-read for anyone interested in history.
Andrew Roberts - British historianHastings's 'Catastrophe 1914' is a compelling account of the first year of World War I. It's a book that will both educate and captivate.
Margaret MacMillan - Canadian historian'Catastrophe 1914' is a riveting, meticulously researched account of the first year of World War I. It's a book that will leave you with a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in history.
Antony Beevor - Military historianMax Hastings's 'Catastrophe 1914' is a tour de force, a gripping account of the first year of World War I that is both deeply researched and beautifully written.
Niall Ferguson - Economic historian'Catastrophe 1914' is a masterful account of the first year of World War I. It's a book that is both deeply researched and compellingly written.
Christopher Clark - Australian historianRecommendations
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