Heralded as the definitive history of the First World War, this epic account tells the story of the world's most devastating cataclysm in full . . . Heralded as the definitive history of the First World War, this epic account tells the story of the world's most devastating cataclysm in full- from when a century of peace was shattered in the summer of 1914, through the escalation of the slaughter to when the guns finally fell silent on the Western Front. Global in its reach, 1914-1918 ultimately show how this 'war to end war' was a deliberate political act, one whose legacy continues to haunt us. 'Superb.' Ian Kershaw 'The best compreshensive one-volume history of the war yet written.' New Yorker 'David Stevenson is the real deal.' Niall Ferguson 'Magisterial . . . sweeping . . . it contributes new insights to our understanding of the conflict and its appalling legacies.' Literary Review 'Not just an outstanding work of history, it is also a powerful message of warning.' History Today 'A book which will last . . . whose compass is wider and more inclusive than any of its single-volume rivals.' Daily Telegraph