The Origins of the Second World War

In this influential book, A.J. P.

Taylor examines the international politics and foreign policy that led to the outbreak of World War II. Taylor argues that Hitler was an opportunist without a thorough plan, and that the diplomatic mistakes of both the Allied and Axis powers contributed significantly to the war.

He challenges the traditional 'Nuremberg Thesis' that Hitler was the sole culprit, instead highlighting the complexities and responsibilities of various nations and their leaders during the interwar period.