A very interesting piece of comparative analysis, in the light of twenty years study of war literature, source material, etc. Hart launches his book with a brief history of the World War, then goes on to take one by one, the leading figures on all fronts. More space is given to England's officers than to others, and in the light of subsequent findings and with new perspective, he analyzes their respective contributions, their weaknesses and strengths, the mistakes they could have avoided, and so on. In this light, some emerge bigger, some lesser men. The approach is primarily from the military and strategic and policy angle, with brief personal analysis. French, German, Italian and American officers come in for their share. The last third of the book is drawn from actual war memoirs -- what people have said of their own part. In juxtaposition, they gain new meaning. All in all, this is a fresh sort of history of the war, synthesized by time, and it makes war a horrible example of human fallacy and a terrific sacrifice on the altar of human pride. Fascinating reading -- and it should be a challenge and warning. The bibliography is a valuable adjunct.