Europe's Last Summer

By: David Fromkin

Narrated by: Alan Sklar

The early summer of 1914 was the most glorious Europeans could remember. But, behind the scenes, the most destructive war the world had yet known was moving inexorably into being, a war that would continue to resonate into the 21st century.

The question of how the Great War of 1914 began has long vexed historians. In a gripping narrative, Fromkin shows that hostilities were started deliberately and that two wars were waged, one serving as pretext for the other.

Shedding light on such current issues as preventive war and terrorism, Fromkin provides detailed descriptions of the negotiations and incisive portraits of the diplomats, generals, and rulers as he reveals why diplomacy was destined to fail.

©2004 David Fromkin (P)2004 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

fascinating

The author opened my mind to the intricacies and complications that led to WW1. Prior to his explanation, the archduke was assassinated and the world went to war was the explanation. The details were at times hard to follow, but gave an insight into what is the real complexities that accompany politics: no doubt, a blueprint for our times.

Very entertaining but biased

This is a great reading. Well-written and well read. However, the author is very sure of his opinion, which seems pretty biased, as he not even tries to support with evidence his concept that France, Russia and Great Britain had fight the war because Germany declared war on them.

Unique perspective on WWI's origins

The author outlines the settings leading up to the war. Many of these are understood by students of WWI. The author then describes opportunities each country had to prevent the war and their failings.

Enjoyed the voice of the narrator which is often difficult for historical narratives but this one was very good. Listened to several chapters multiple times.

Difficult for a newcomer to the Great War

I have read a great deal about WWI and found this book to be quite interesting, if occasionally dry. This is not a book for someone who is new to the study of the Great War of 2914-1918. The book seems to be exhaustively researched, and so, will be valuable to the more serious student of the war.

Why did it turn to war

The shooting of a couple of monarchs not really liked is believed to be the spark to war.
But really misinformation spead about the monarch, a youth movement against the establishment, political leaders play games against each other and thier leaders.
The spreading of Socialist, communist. Bolsheist movements around the world, and weak democracy leaders (like Wilson) had impact on events leading to the summer of 1914.