A Short History of the Great War   By: Alfred W. Pollard (1869-1948)

Alfred W. Pollard's "A Short History of the Great War" offers readers an insightful and concise overview of one of the most impactful events in modern history. While the title itself may seem straightforward, the content within goes far beyond a mere chronology of events.

From the very beginning, Pollard succeeds in captivating the reader's attention by providing a comprehensive background on the factors that led to the outbreak of the Great War. He skillfully delves into the political tensions, alliances, and power struggles that characterized Europe at the time, allowing readers to understand the complex web of circumstances that set the stage for the devastating conflict.

Pollard's writing style is direct and lucid, making the historical narrative both accessible and engaging. The clarity with which he presents the events and their consequences ensures that readers, regardless of their prior knowledge on the subject, can follow along easily. Furthermore, the author's ability to condense such a massive and multifaceted conflict into a comparatively short book is commendable.

One of the book's standout features is Pollard's attention to detail. Despite its brevity, the author manages to provide an in-depth analysis of significant battles, strategies, and military developments throughout the war. This detailed approach allows readers to grasp the immense scale and intricacies of the conflict, while avoiding overwhelming them with an information overload.

Moreover, Pollard demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the human aspect of war, highlighting the personal stories of soldiers, civilians, and leaders. By weaving these individual narratives into the broader historical context, he creates a vivid and emotionally resonant portrayal of the Great War. This approach adds depth to the book, elevating it beyond a mere factual account and providing a more well-rounded understanding of the war’s impact on individuals and societies.

While "A Short History of the Great War" successfully fulfills its intended purpose as a concise overview, it may leave some readers yearning for more. The brevity of the book prevents a deeper exploration of certain themes and events, particularly the complex causes and consequences of the war. However, it should be noted that this critique stems from the inherent limitations of a short history rather than a flaw in Pollard's writing.

In conclusion, Alfred W. Pollard's "A Short History of the Great War" is an excellent introductory text for those seeking a comprehensive overview of this pivotal event. Its concise yet detailed approach, combined with the author's accessible writing style, make it a suitable choice for both history enthusiasts and newcomers to the subject. Pollard's skillful storytelling and careful consideration of the human aspect of war make this book a worthwhile read for anyone interested in understanding the Great War and its enduring impact on our world.

First Page:

CONTENTS CHAP. I. THE BREACH OF THE PEACE II. THE GERMAN INVASION III. RUSSIA MOVES IV. THE WAR ON AND BEYOND THE SEAS V. ESTABLISHING THE WESTERN FRONT VI. THE FIRST WINTER OF THE WAR VII. THE FAILURE OF THE ALLIED OFFENSIVE VIII. THE DEFEAT OF RUSSIA IX. THE CLIMAX OF GERMAN SUCCESS X. THE SECOND WINTER OF THE WAR XI. THE SECOND GERMAN OFFENSIVE IN THE WEST XII. THE ALLIED COUNTER OFFENSIVE XIII. THE BALKANS AND POLITICAL REACTIONS XIV... Continue reading book >>