This authoritative book begins with the aftermath of World War I, when
new political movements and grievances took shape. The book then covers
the war in detail from the advance of Nazi forces across Europe to
Operation Barbarossa, and from the battles in North Africa to the war in
the Pacific. Life during this time for civilians and prisoners of war is
also considered, as is the genocide of these years and the creation of
weapons of mass destruction. The final chapter covers the themes which
shaped the second half of the 20th century - the establishment of the
Iron Curtain, decolonization and the reconstruction of Europe. The
brutal history and sheer scope of World War II is well-served by this
intelligent and wide-ranging illustrated account of the conflict, told
in an accessible style that is perfect for both the general and
specialist reader.