Examining the First World War from a European and world perspective, this text evaluates the causes of the war and the aims, strengths and weaknesses of the major combatants. The reasons for victory and defeat and the impact of four years of total war are also analysed. The Access to History Context series covers core periods of European and American history. Each book covers a period of several years, charting the key political, social, economic, religious and cultural themes and issues of that time. All texts include activities with comprehensive advice on tackling essay questions.