Why the First World War lasted so long
The First World War ended 100 years ago today. Scholars have long debated its causes and effects. Yet surprisingly few have explored why the war lasted four long and bloody years. Could it have ended sooner?
In fact, largely forgotten is how Germany and the United States issued peace overtures in December 1916. Had these overtures been successful, they could have spared countless lives and have helped Europe escape the financial ruin and deep-seated animosity that produced World War II. Unfortunately, the Entente — Britain, France and Russia — dismissed both offers, and the fighting continued. In our Security Studies article, we show that honor influenced their decision to forgo peace.… Seguir leyendo »