"This book provides a concise and insightful history of the 'Great War' - from the state of Europe in 1914, to the role of the US, the collapse of Russia, and the eventual surrender of the Central Powers. Examining how and why the war was fought, as well as the historical controversies that still surround the war, Michael Howard also looks at how peace was ultimately made, and describes the potent legacy of resentment left to Germany."--BOOK JACKET.

Includes maps of: Europe before the War; Europe after the War; Western Front; Eastern Front; Balkans; Northern Italy; Ottoman Empire. Originally published: Oxford : Oxford University Press, 2002.

Europe in 1914 -- The coming of war -- 1914 : the opening campaigns -- 1915 : the war continues -- 1916 : the war of attrition -- The United States enters the war -- 1917 : the year of crisis -- 1918 : the year of decision -- The settlement.