I think the Q & A about why Germany went to war is far too dismissive, considering that the subject of the causes of WW1 is among the most debated in all of history. No one even suggests that Britain may have borne some responsibility as well. Also, no mention is made of Britain itself being exhausted and short on manpower by 1918 and the effect of the arrival of massive numbers of American troops in France during that year on Germany's decision to surrender.
Excellent stuff. It's refreshing to hear a realistic assessment of Haig for a change.
He may have had his faults but I doubt that anyone in British military history has been under as much pressure as Haig was in late 1917/early 1918. That he was able to come through to victory despite contending with war weariness, Lloyd-George, the French, the tortoise like Pershing, ever changing technology and a formidable enemy is a monumental feat.
I think the Q & A about why Germany went to war is far too dismissive, considering that the subject of the causes of WW1 is among the most debated in all of history. No one even suggests that Britain may have borne some responsibility as well. Also, no mention is made of Britain itself being exhausted and short on manpower by 1918 and the effect of the arrival of massive numbers of American troops in France during that year on Germany's decision to surrender.
squamish4244 2 months ago
Excellent stuff. It's refreshing to hear a realistic assessment of Haig for a change.
He may have had his faults but I doubt that anyone in British military history has been under as much pressure as Haig was in late 1917/early 1918. That he was able to come through to victory despite contending with war weariness, Lloyd-George, the French, the tortoise like Pershing, ever changing technology and a formidable enemy is a monumental feat.
TheSmithDorian 4 months ago
I couldn't mark the event so it's great seeing and hearing the debate online. More please.
curmo 1 year ago