Baptism of Fire: Germany's Lost Victory in 1914

Dr. Robert Foley's argument centres on the idea that Germany's initial gains in 1914, particularly on the Western Front, were significant enough to be considered a victory in themselves, but that these gains were ultimately squandered as the war progressed.

In the first few months of World War I, Germany achieved considerable victories, notably in the Battle of the Frontiers and the First Battle of the Marne. However, the German advance was halted at the Marne, leading to trench warfare and a prolonged conflict.

Dr Foley's analysis suggests that Germany's strategic decisions, such as the transfer of troops to the Eastern Front, contributed to their inability to capitalize on their early successes. The emphasis on 1914 highlights the crucial period when Germany had a chance to potentially achieve a swift victory but failed to do so, leading to a protracted and ultimately devastating war.

Recorded as part of the WFA President's Conference series "A World at War 1914-18" - 1914: The BEF and the German Imperial Armies.