The First World War

Here is a richly complex year-by-year view of World War One that uncovers its underlying causes, from the first shots in the Balkans through its relentless, deadly expansion across Europe and beyond. Start in the east as Germany strikes forth, and then read of the horrific actions that eliminated Serbia, brought fighting to the Pacific and Africa, led to the tragedy at Gallipoli, and moved into Palestine. Look westward to the clash of armies at Verdun, Brusilov, and the Somme, and at the U-boat campaign. And, at the culmination, consider the price of peace--and how Germany's punishment helped sow the seeds of World War II.

Dr. Robin Prior is with the history department of the Australian Defence Force in Canberra. Trevor Wilson, a professor of history at Adelaide University in Australia, has written one of the most important studies of World War One,Myriad Faces of War.