1914 - An Illustrated History

Europe had stumbled into the most deadly and destructive conflict in its history. No-one knew how it would be fought; no-one knew how it would end. Those initial few critical months of the First World War are graphically portrayed in unique images and vivid prose.

THE ARMY IN FRANCE
The British Expeditionary Force fires its first shots of the war as it faces overwhelming odds. A desperate fighting retreat is transformed into victory at Le Cateau and the ‘Miracle’ of the Marne.


IN THE NARROW SEAS
At sea the Royal Navy flexes its muscles, drawing the German fleet into battles in the North Sea. German ships bombard the British east coast.

IN THE AIR
The Royal Flying Corps in action for the first time. German aircraft bomb Britain.


ACROSS THE GLOBE
Across the oceans the Royal Navy and the Imperial German Navy battle to the death in the Cocos Islands, the Falklands and East Africa. German overseas territories are attacked by British Empire forces.

DIGGING IN
Trench warfare begins as the troops prepare for a long war. At home new laws are passed and the first war budget is announced. On the Western Front the troops lay down their arms in a remarkable Christmas Day truce.

And much, much more ....