Written by renowned military historian Sir Michael Howard, The First World War offers a concise yet authoritative overview of one of history’s most transformative conflicts. Part of Oxford University Press’s respected Very Short Introduction series, this compact volume presents a clear and accessible narrative explaining how and why the Great War began, how it was fought, and the lasting consequences it left behind.
Howard examines the complex political landscape of Europe before 1914, the escalation from regional tensions into global warfare, and the major military and diplomatic turning points that shaped the conflict. From the role of alliances and industrialized warfare to the collapse of empires and the controversial peace settlement, the book provides readers with a balanced perspective on both strategy and historical debate.
Despite its small size, this insightful introduction covers the war’s key themes — including the onset of attrition, the involvement of the United States, the fall of Russia, and the eventual defeat of the Central Powers — making it ideal for students, collectors of military history, or anyone seeking a reliable overview of World War I.
Clear, scholarly, and highly readable, this Oxford paperback remains a popular gateway into modern European history and an excellent primer for both casual readers and serious enthusiasts.
