The First World War

The First World War (1998) is a work of history by John Keegan, a renowned British scholar of military affairs. The book is regarded as a classic in the field of World War I history, and places a particular emphasis on the military aspects of the war. Indeed, its intense focus on this area has led to criticism for being somewhat reductive, especially in its treatment of political and economic dimensions. Keegan was celebrated for his ability to bring historical issues to life and wrote extensively on the nature of warfare itself as well as on specific conflicts. Apart from The First World War, he is best known for his books Soldiers: A History of Men in Battle (1985) and The Face of Battle (1976).

This study guide is based on the 2000 paperback edition published by Vintage.

Content Warning: This guide includes graphic descriptions of violence and suffering inflicted on both soldiers and civilians. It also discusses death by suicide, colonialism, and the extreme violence that accompanied colonialism, as well as racism and racist attitudes.

Summary

The First World War begins with the argument that World War I was a tragic and unneeded conflict, inflicting incalculable damage on a European civilization that had been enjoying a long period of peace, prosperity, and interdependence.