57 pages • 1 hour read
The Guns of August
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Book Brief
640
Book • Nonfiction
Europe • 1910s
1962
Adult
18+ years
1350L
Super Short Summary
The Guns of August by Barbara W. Tuchman explores the complex events leading up to and encompassing the first month of World War I, with a focus on the diplomatic, military, and strategic maneuvers of the involved nations. Tuchman details the political tensions following King Edward VII's death, the German belief in being encircled, the French desire to avenge past losses, and the ensuing battles that set the stage for a prolonged conflict. The narrative highlights the initial German invasion of Belgium and the subsequent international responses, ultimately leading to a grueling stalemate and foreshadowing the devastating trench warfare that defined the war. The book discusses topics of violence, war, and civilian casualties.
Informative
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
86,309 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Barbara Tuchman’s The Guns of August is widely praised for its vivid narrative and detailed research on the outbreak of World War I. Critics commend Tuchman’s ability to bring historical events to life with engaging prose. However, some note that the extensive detail can be overwhelming. Overall, Tuchman’s work is considered a landmark in historical writing.
Who Should Read The Guns of August?
A reader who enjoys The Guns of August by Barbara W. Tuchman would likely appreciate detailed historical narratives and insightful analysis of World War I. Fans of works like The First World War by John Keegan or A World Undone by G.J. Meyer will find Tuchman’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling equally compelling.
86,309 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
King Albert
King Albert
The King of Belgium who plays a crucial role in resisting the German invasion during World War I, slowing their progress and impacting the course of the war.
Sir John French
Sir John French
The commander of the British Expeditionary Forces whose hesitance is portrayed as significant within the context of England's early actions in World War I.
General Joseph-Simon Gallieni
General Joseph-Simon Gallieni
The military leader responsible for the defense of Paris, noted for his strategic actions that contribute to halting the German advance.
Kaiser Wilhelm II
Kaiser Wilhelm II
The ruler of Germany at the time, depicted as embodying both German superiority ambitions and hesitations, contributing to the complexities of the war's progression.
General Joseph Joffre
General Joseph Joffre
The French supreme commander known for his imperturbability and decisive leadership during key moments of World War I.
General Alexander Von Kluck
General Alexander Von Kluck
A German general noted for his role in the destruction in Belgium and for a key strategic misstep as he moved toward Paris during the war.
Field Marshal Helmuth Von Moltke
Field Marshal Helmuth Von Moltke
The chief of the German army during the early stages of World War I, involved in the execution of the Schlieffen Plan with critical hesitations affecting the German military efforts.
King Edward VII of England
King Edward VII of England
His death is symbolically linked to the end of an era, marking the transition from interconnected European royal families to the wartime environment.
640
Book • Nonfiction
Europe • 1910s
1962
Adult
18+ years
1350L
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