In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill reunites with historians and co-authors of "Ring of Fire," Alex Churchill and Nicolai Eberholst, to explore the often-overlooked narratives of the First World War. Together, they challenge the traditional Western-centric perspectives and delve into the complexities of the war's global impact, particularly focusing on the Eastern Front and the contributions of lesser-known nations.

Revisiting the Great War:

- Alex and Nicolai discuss their motivations for writing "Ring of Fire," aiming to provide a more balanced account of the war that includes the significant events and actors often omitted from mainstream narratives.

Unpacking the Myths:

- The duo passionately critiques the oversimplified narratives that dominate First World War literature, highlighting how the war's origins and battles in the East are frequently ignored.

Global Perspectives:

- Discover the surprising roles played by countries such as Japan and the Ottoman Empire, as well as the impact of colonial forces in Africa and Asia, challenging the notion that the war was solely a European affair.

The Human Cost:

- Alex and Nicolai share harrowing accounts of ordinary soldiers and civilians, illustrating the brutal realities of war and the emotional turmoil experienced across various fronts.

Challenging Neutrality:

- The conversation also touches on the complexities of neutrality, with insights into how countries like Denmark and Sweden navigated their positions amidst the chaos of war.

Join us as we unravel the multifaceted narratives of the First World War, shedding light on the stories that deserve to be told. "Ring of Fire" is available for purchase, and can be bought below:

Buy the Book: Ring of Fire: A New Global History of the Outbreak of the First World War

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781035903429

Don't miss the chance to catch Alex at the Chalke History Festival, running from 23rd to 29th June and tickets are available from:

Tickets: https://www.chalkefestival.com/

Connect with Alex and Nicolai on Social Media:

- Follow the guys on X, Instagram and Bluesky: Alex at @Churchill_Alex and Nicolai at @PikeGrey1418.

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