2026 Reading Challenge
A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918

Questions About A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918

by G.J. Meyer

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Answered Questions (1)

does the book says about the political affairs of the war?
Joshua Greer Yes, the first 100 pages are about the political reasons behind the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand and the political response to those actions.

M…moreYes, the first 100 pages are about the political reasons behind the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand and the political response to those actions.

Meyer shares a lot of insight into each country's reasons for going to war and the reasons they didn't want to but were almost forced to by their alliances and fears of other countries' actions. I really learned a lot more about why the war happened beyond "It was all about alliances and train schedules" like I learned in school. You really get a solid understanding and realise that these people weren't stupid or evil, just human.

Even after the war starts Meyer explains the political reasons behind staying in the war, new alliances, and strategic decisions. You even get background chapters on the ruling families, political and social factors that affected the war, etc.

A very good book that doesn't bog down on simply military movement around the battlefield and casualty numbers. I highly recommend as a first book on The Great War for those interested in learning about it. I just moved to Belgium and I'm eager to explore the battlefields, memorials, and museums and I feel a lot more prepared having read this book.(less)
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