Best book about WWI and WWII and everything after.

A brilliant book which gives an insight into the history leading to the wars and also how the wars shaped our world long after they were supposedly over. A must read (or listen).

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A probe into humanity's madness

A thorough perspective of WHY things had happened the way they were.
Excellent preview of events leading to WW1 n WW2.
A must-listen for history enthusiasts and humanitarians alike.

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An incredible history of 20th Century conflict

At 34 and a half hours, this book requires commitment but it will be amply rewarded through the author's forensic analysis of the major conflicts of the 20th century. Appropriately, emphasis is given to the World Wars however the perspectives of both causes and issues are examined in ways not found in many other books on the subject.

The narrator's tone and speed gave gravitas to the subject matter but was never condescending or overplayed.

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in a serious examination of history's bloodiest century.

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Daunting, Eye-opening and Dramatic

Niall Ferguson certainly has a way of altering your perception of the world's history and as a result; altering the way we see today's world. This book definitely has that effect on me. Whilst staying true to statistical analysis and professional historiography, Ferguson has also written this book in an extremely gruelling, emotional and dramatic flair which captivated me. The very fact he can switch to pop-culture references/light humour to disturbing and very graphic content is also seem less and appropriate. Bloody good book.

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astute overview

a worthwhile investment that will foster a deeper understanding of 20th century conflict. Up there with Ferguson's finest work.

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good read

a very interesting and evocative look at human behavior. unpleasant and brutal in many ways but looks of new insights

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Well Worth the Time

This really takes a while. Now that its finished . I wont to hear it again. So much detail..its almost asks more questions than it answers...One thing i know for certain. NEVER trust Politicians.

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Amazing but moving

there were times i had to stop disgusted with the depravity of mans inhumanity to man. Niall tells it like it was and pulls no punches and it is at times harrowing particularly genocide bits. Every child should study this book in school compulsory reading if ppl understood the primitive motives we all have and how dehumanising ppl can lead to bloodshed the world might be a better place at the expense of some nightmares after listening to this. i wish niall had naratted this book though it can be a bit flat narration at times.

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Fairly bleak stuff

Important to look unflinchingly at the events of the 20th century but listening to the book likely isn't going to make you feel great. I like the recent history of the era and there were a few topics I hadn't heard much about before.

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Scarily Good

Thoroughly researched

Should be compulsory reading for high school students so they understand what darkness humans are capable of.

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