World War I: The War in Europe

The third volume in the America in the 20th Century series (following America Becomes a World Power and The Progressive Era), the stand-alone World War I: The War in Europe is divided into five sections. “Roots of War” discusses the social tensions and political climate that led to the eruption of WWI; “European Military Alliances” examines the treaties and alliances that created a domino effect as European nations were drawn into the war; "The Toll of the War" focuses on the advances in weaponry that contributed to a massive number of casualties; “U.S. Involvement Overseas” relates the story of the remarkable job publicist George Creel did of “selling” the war effort and U.S. intervention to a reluctant American people; and “Supporting the War Effort” looks at home front efforts to raise war bonds, with additional support from Hollywood filmmakers, popular songwriters, and newspapers. Combining remarkably good period newsreel footage and stills with a solid overview of the major issues surrounding the war, this excellent program is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (L. Stevens)