PN, as this is about a television programme, not a re-run of WWI, what you're saying doesn't chime with Max Hasting's claims. Now, I am not a WWI historian, but I am very keen to hear the views of those who probably know more about it than I. But a well-argued position with evidence would be useful. Like Hipper, I shall retreat to my reading room for a while. Informative title suggestions much appreaciated.