The World War and What was Behind It Or, the Story of the Map of Europe   By: Louis Paul Bénézet (1878-1961)

Louis Paul Bénézet's historical masterpiece, "The World War and What Was Behind It Or, the Story of the Map of Europe," takes readers on a captivating journey through the complex origins of the First World War. Drawing on meticulous research and a deep understanding of international relations, Bénézet delves into the political, economic, and cultural factors that led to one of the most devastating conflicts in human history.

One of the book's greatest strengths is Bénézet's ability to present a comprehensive narrative while maintaining a balanced perspective. He expertly navigates through the tangled web of alliances and rivalries that characterized pre-war Europe, shedding light on the key players and their motivations. By doing so, Bénézet enables readers to grasp the intricate dynamics that set the stage for the war.

Bénézet's writing style is both engaging and accessible, making this historical account widely accessible to readers of all backgrounds. From the opening pages, his vivid descriptions transport readers to the bygone era, conveying the political tensions and societal transformations that unfolded during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His ability to weave individual stories into the broader historical context adds a personal touch to the narrative, making it easier for readers to connect with the events and the people involved.

Moreover, "The World War and What Was Behind It" provides valuable insights into the socio-economic changes that shaped the world at the time. Bénézet unpacks the intricate economic factors that influenced the actions of nations, such as the quest for resources, colonial ambitions, and the rise of industrialization. By highlighting these underlying themes, the author underscores the complexity of the war's causes and dispels simplistic explanations that reduce the conflict to mere aggression or territorial disputes.

Although published in 1919, Bénézet's work remains highly relevant today, offering a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked nationalism and the dangers of failing diplomacy. While it primarily focuses on European factors, the book also sheds light on the global dimensions of the war, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nations and the far-reaching impact of their actions.

If there is any criticism to be made, it lies in the book's occasional denseness and information overload, which may overwhelm readers seeking a lighter overview of the war's causes. However, this can be forgiven and is more than compensated for by the author's meticulous attention to detail and thorough examination of the multitude of factors.

In summary, Louis Paul Bénézet's "The World War and What Was Behind It Or, the Story of the Map of Europe" is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the origins of the First World War. Bénézet's masterful storytelling and comprehensive analysis breathe life into this dark chapter of history, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and general readers alike.

First Page:

This little volume is the result of the interest shown by pupils, teachers, and the general public in a series of talks on the causes of the great European war which were given by the author in the fall of 1914. The audiences were widely different in character. They included pupils of the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades, students in high school and normal school, teachers in the public schools, an association of business men, and a convention of boards of education. In every case, the same sentiment was voiced: "If there were only some book which would give us these facts in simple language and illustrate them by maps and charts as you have done!" After searching the market for a book of this sort without success, the author determined to put the subject of his talks into manuscript form. It has been his aim to write in a style which is well within the comprehension of the children in the upper grades and yet is not too juvenile for adult readers. The book deals with the remarkable sequence of events in Europe which made the great war inevitable. Facts are revealed which, so far as the author knows, have not been published in any history to date; facts which had the strongest possible bearing on the outbreak of the war... Continue reading book >>