This book explores the influence of Helmuth von Moltke, Germany's Chief of the General Staff between 1906 and 1914. Based largely on previously-unknown primary sources, it shows that Moltke's influence on the Kaiser and on Germany's political decision-making to have been decisive, helping to foster an increasingly confrontational mood. The book also takes issue with the common perception of Moltke as a reluctant military leader, concluding that he was both bellicose and ambitious and played a crucial role in the outbreak of the First World War.

Originally published: 2001.

Introduction -- 1. Military decision-making in Wilhelmine Germany -- 2. Alfred von Schlieffen and Helmuth von Moltke: 'military genius' and 'reluctant military leader'? -- 3. From crisis to crisis: the international background to military planning in the pre-war years -- 4. The July Crisis and the outbreak of War: the German perspective -- 5. The General Staff at war -- Conclusion. Myths and Realities: Helmuth von Moltke and the origins of the First World War -- Bibliography -- Index.