Watch The Great War Begins

The Great War Begins is a documentary miniseries hosted by historian Dan Snow that examines the major events that preceded the start of World War I. The six-part series, which was produced by BBC, features a mix of archival footage, reenactments, and expert analysis to give viewers an in-depth look at the causes and consequences of the conflict that changed the course of history.

The first episode of The Great War Begins, titled "The Guns of August," explores the political and social tensions that led to the outbreak of war. Snow begins by introducing the major players in the conflict, including Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm II, Russia's Tsar Nicholas II, and Britain's King George V. He then goes on to discuss the complex web of alliances and treaties that bound European nations together, and how these agreements created a delicate balance of power that could easily be upset.

The second episode, "War Plans," looks at how military strategists on both sides of the conflict prepared for war. Snow examines the development of new weapons and tactics, including tanks and chemical warfare, and how these innovations would change the nature of warfare forever. He also discusses the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion and rallying support for the war effort.

In the third episode, "Mobilisation," Snow explores the rapid mobilization of European armies and the impact it had on civilian life. Countries like Germany and Russia had vast reserves of manpower and were able to mobilize huge armies in a matter of weeks, but this also meant the sudden disruption of ordinary life for millions of people. Snow examines how governments dealt with the logistical challenges of mobilization, including transportation and supply lines, and how civilians coped with the upheaval.

The fourth episode, "Trenches and Lice," takes a closer look at the brutal realities of life on the front lines. Snow discusses the challenges soldiers faced, including trench warfare, disease, and the psychological toll of combat. He also explores the experiences of ordinary people caught up in the war, including women who took on new roles in industry and support services.

In the fifth episode, "The Battle of Jutland," Snow examines one of the most significant naval battles of the war. He discusses the strategies and tactics used by both the British and German fleets, and how the battle marked a turning point in the war at sea. He also looks at the impact of the battle on public opinion and the way that it played out in the press.

The final episode of the series, "The Somme and Armistice," focuses on two key events that marked the end of the war. Snow examines the disastrous Battle of the Somme, which saw hundreds of thousands of casualties on both sides, and the eventual armistice that brought the war to a close. He also discusses the long-term consequences of the war, including the redrawn map of Europe, the rise of new political ideologies, and the impact on the lives of ordinary people.

Overall, The Great War Begins is a comprehensive and engaging look at the events that led up to World War I and the impact it had on the world. Through the use of archival footage, reenactments, and expert analysis, the series provides a detailed and vivid picture of this pivotal moment in history. Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in learning more about this important period, The Great War Begins is sure to be an informative and stimulating viewing experience.

The Great War Begins is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 50 minutes.