Offering a timely exploration of how advances in science and technology, as well as evolving social attitudes in the U.S., influenced the way America fought wars over the course of the 20th century, this five-volume boxed set from the Discovery Channel's Assignment Discovery series opens with a look at WWI. After noting the continuing relevance of Erich Maria Remarque's novel All Quiet on the Western Front (still one of the most widely studied anti-war novels), the initial volume examines the tremendous loss of life and widespread emotional trauma during the first “total” war ("total" not just in the traditional global sense, but also in the way that the war's sphere of influence extended far beyond the military to involve manufacturing, with civilians on the assembly lines). Volumes 2 and 3 trace 18th and 19th century colonization in Southeast Asia, followed by Japan's quest in the early 20th century to take control of the natural resources of the region and drive out the Americans and Europeans, a course of action that ultimately led to the attack on Pearl Harbor and America's entry into WWII. Volume 4 explores the post-WWII climate, the descent of the Iron Curtain over Eastern Europe, and Truman's policy of containment, all of which set the stage for the Korean War. Volume 5 concludes with Vietnam, the war that was fought on two fronts--in Asia and at home. Drawing on archival newsreel and military footage, as well as commentary from historians and critics, this well-scripted series offers a solid chronicle of the political and social events that shaped America's involvement in 20th century wars. Bundled with a teacher's guide featuring lesson plans and discussion topics, this set is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (L. Stevens)
Wars of the 20th Century
(2002) 5 videocassettes. 234 min. $219.95. Discovery Channel School. PPR. Color cover. Closed captioned. ISBN: 1-58738-386-1. Volume 18, Issue 3
Wars of the 20th Century
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