The Sleepwalkers by Christopher Clark
The Sleepwalkers: How Europe Went to War in 1914 by Christopher Clark is a major history of the political, diplomatic, and social developments that led to the outbreak of the First World War. Rather than focusing primarily on the battles of the war, Clark examines the decisions, rivalries, alliances, misunderstandings, and crises that brought Europe to the brink of conflict.
The book follows events across Vienna, Berlin, St. Petersburg, Paris, London, and Belgrade, with particular attention to the Balkans and the July Crisis of 1914. Clark explores how multiple governments and political leaders contributed to a rapidly escalating situation, making the origins of World War I a complex international story rather than a simple account of one decision or one country.
Key Themes
- World War I
- Causes of the First World War
- European history
- Diplomatic history
- The July Crisis of 1914
- Balkan politics
- European alliances
- International relations
- Political decision-making
- Austria-Hungary and Serbia
- Germany, Russia, France and Britain
- Modern European history
Why Read This Book?
The Sleepwalkers is well suited to readers interested in World War I, European history, international politics, diplomacy, military history, and the origins of modern conflict. Its detailed examination of the events leading to 1914 provides historical context for understanding how a regional crisis developed into a conflict involving major European powers.
About the Author
Christopher Clark is a distinguished historian and Professor of Modern History at the University of Cambridge. He is also known for works including Iron Kingdom: The Rise and Downfall of Prussia, 1600–1947.
Product Details
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Book Title: The Sleepwalkers
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Subtitle: How Europe Went to War in 1914
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Author: Christopher Clark
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Language: English
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Format: Paperback
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Genre: History / European History / World War I
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Publisher: Penguin Press / Harper Perennial, depending on edition
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ISBN-13: 9780141027821 — Penguin paperback edition
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Pages: 736 — Penguin paperback edition
Edition details vary: the Harper Perennial U.S. paperback is ISBN 9780061146664 and is also listed at 736 pages.
