<DIV>"... for my money it's the best history of World War I." - Robert Cowley, <I>Military Historical Review<BR><br> </I>The Great War began in Europe on July 28, 1914, one month after the assassination of the heir to the Austrian throne. By August 12, the major powers were locked in a conflict of arms that was to become the bloodiest and most costly in human lives the world had seen, and which was to rapidly spread to every part of the globe. Here is a concise, vivid and detailed history of the 1914-18 War that presents general readers with an accurate, intelligent and graphically readable account of the campaigns and battles, along with brilliant portraits of the leaders and generals of all countries involved. Scrupulously fair, this fascinating narrative has established itself over the yaers as the classic account of World War I.<BR><br>  </div>