In a new edition featuring a new preface; A World of Arms remains a classic of global history. Widely hailed as a masterpiece; this volume remains the first history of World War II to provide a truly global account of the war that encompassed six continents. Starting with the changes that restructured Europe and its colonies following the First World War; Gerhard Weinberg sheds new light on every aspect of World War II. Actions of the Axis; the Allies; and the Neutrals are covered in every theater of the war. More importantly; the global nature of the war is examined; with new insights into how events in one corner of the world helped affect events in often distant areas.
#468941 in Books Cambridge University Press 2004-07-26Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.98 x .71 x 5.98l; .97 #File Name: 0521543843324 pages
Review
20 of 21 people found the following review helpful. The real story behind the movie; "Lincoln"By Along Red River of the NorthI heartily concur with the other 5-star Editorial and Customer reviews about this outstanding book. My guess is that with the release of the excellent Spielberg movie; "Lincoln;" many will want to know more about the historical context; contingencies and politics behind the landmark 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1865 (only a couple months before the U.S. Civil War ended).It is a shame that Doris Kearns Goodwin's "Team of Rivals" is being marketed as the book behind the movie; because it is not! Not that it isn't a decent book. I think she was hired as a consultant for the movie; to get the character of major figures of Lincoln's cabinet (e.g.; Seward and Stanton) right. That is what "Team of Rivals" is about - Lincoln's cabinet. But it is NOT about the fight for the 13th Amendment. For that story; "Final Freedom" is the best book on the subject; and I'd like to see Professor Vorenberg reap some well-deserved book sales.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. A Must Read for Civil War EnthusiastsBy Ronald J. GertsIn depth research into the passage of the 13th Amendment. It covers the same period as the 'Lincoln' movie. This is a period that is overlooked in the history that you read in school. Passage of the amendment was never guaranteed. Even though a Civil War was fought; there was still uncertainty whether slavery would be abolished. The politics of this era are a surprise. This is an important book for not only Civil War buffs; but all who are interested in the legislative process.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. The real book that "Lincoln" is based on.By ksctIf you saw the Spielberg "Lincoln" movie and were stimulated to read more about the real events; as I was; then this is the book to read. Gives lots of historical context and meaning. And quite frankly gives alot of support to how events were portrayed in the film; which is not always the case with movies based on history. The DKG book while being promoted with the movie is a good book but not really relevant to the story of the 13th amendment. I suspect it has more to do with cross promotion and marketing.
