The war that no one wanted: the origins of the First World War
Stephen Goss
- Regions:
- South East, London, South West, Northern Ireland, East of England
- Notice Period:
- Short (maybe less than one month's notice)
- Type:
- Professional historian
- Fee:
- Paid: £90.00
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 24th March 2025
- Tagged:
- 19Th Century | 20Th Century | War | World War 1
We have now marked the centenary of the outbreak and conclusion of one of the most shattering conflicts of the Twentieth Century.
This talk outlines the international developments that resulted in the First World War. It will cover the unification of both Italy and Germany, the domestic situations in the great powers and key European players, the impact of empire-building and the situation in the Balkans. The intricacies of international relations in the period are outlined to provide an understanding of why Europe was plunged into such a devastating war. Weaving these considerations together, it will put the First World War in context and explain why a dispute in south-eastern Europe was so quickly transformed into a fight to the death for the Continent’s great empires and powers.
Views: 604 | Enquiries: 0About Stephen Goss
An academic historian published in peer-review journals who has been a popular speaker in local historical societies and community groups for 15 years.
With me you get history based on the highest standard of research and analysis - presented in an engaging, witty and enjoyable way. I tailor my talks to suit your audience; I guarantee you will be fascinated with the insights and hear humorous anecdotes which will stay with you.
I am also a multiple award-winning tour guide with 100% positive reviews on TripAdvisor. If you would like a walking tour, or a combined talk and walk, please contact me. Each of my talks are accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation. I can provide laptop, projector, and speaker if necessary.
Other Talks on SpeakerNet by Stephen Goss
- The Secret history: Britain and the Cold War
- ‘This is not a peace. It is an armistice for twenty years’: the origins of the Second World War
- From Domesday Book to listening in for doomsday: Caversham Park’s 930 years at the centre of history
- 'This is the room from which I will direct the war': Churchill and the Cabinet War Rooms
- From Partition to Protocol: the history of Northern Ireland
- No tolerance of undeserving rank and splendour: the wit and satire of Gilbert & Sullivan – Act I
- I’ve got a little list of society offenders': the wit and satire of Gilbert & Sullivan – Act II
- The Titanic and her times
- A Study in Sherlock: the Secrets Behind the World’s Most Famous Detective
- ‘A terrible foe has been cast on the ground’: the path to victory and VE Day 80 years on
- ‘America is lost!’ On the 250th anniversary, American independence from the British perspective
- Cliveden House: power, politics, and Profumo
- Opulence, Innovation, and Intrigue: the history of the Orient Express
Send a message to the speaker
If you are interested in this talk and wish to contact the speaker, please complete the following form: