Book excerpt: This new Companion covers one of the most devastating conflicts in modern history. The Great War traumatised a generation and shaped the whole of the twentieth century. Speaking as loudly as any first-hand account, the facts and figures laid out in this volume reveal the sheer massive destruction caused by the war. Covering all aspects of the conflict from its origins and course to the peace settlements and the crises they generated, Colin Nicolson unravels historical controversies and also considers the social, cultural and economic consequences of the war for the whole of Europe. Containing all the essential facts and figures this Companion will be greatly welcomed by teachers, academics and students alike.