Why did World War I happen? Several of the oft-cited causes are reviewed and discussed in this analysis. The argument of the alliance systems is inadequate, lacking relevance or compelling force. The argument of an accident or "slide" is also inadequate, given the clear and unambiguous evidence of intentions. The arguments of mass demands focusing on nationalism, militarism, and social Darwinism are also arguably insufficient. They lack indications of frequency, intensity, and process or influence on the various decisions.

Focusing on the choices made by coteries, this study examines the perplexing question of why World War I happened. In each case, the decision to enter the war was made by a handful of individuals--monarchs, ministers, military people, party leaders, ambassadors, and a few others. In each case also, separate and distinct agendas are seen, with considerations differing from one nation to the next. The leadership of Japan, the Ottoman Empire, Italy, the Balkans, and the United States are explored, as well as that of the major powers involved--Austria-Hungary, Germany, France, and Great Britain,

The Grand Illusion analyzes the impact of European military institutions on Hispanic America in general and examines the putative Prussianization of the Chilean army in particular. The authors focus on Chile s attempt to import and assimilate foreign military methods, doctrine, and materiel. They incorporate research from Chilean, Austrian, German, British, and American archives to offer a new interpretation of Chile s military reforms.The authors argue that the Chilean army adopted only the most superficial aspects of the German military ethos, which eventually led to the creation of...