First World War in Focus: Rare and Unseen Photographs

The First World War in Focus presents one hundred photographs from the Imperial War Museums collection, revealing the war with astonishing breadth and clarity. Taken by military personnel using private cameras, the photographs show well-known events and the war fought as far afield as Samoa and China, bringing the experience of World War I closer to us than ever.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2018
Publisher: Imperial War Museum

As we approach the conclusion of extensive centennial commemorations of World War I, it remains astonishingly capable of surprising and even shocking us. This is particularly evident in the photographs that have survived the passage of time, meticulously preserved by Imperial War Museums over the decades. The First World War in Focus presents a remarkable collection of one hundred photographs, many of which are being published for the first time, offering a breathtaking perspective on the war. These photographs, primarily captured by military personnel using private cameras, provide a unique lens through which to understand the conflict on all fronts. They shed light on aspects that often eluded the attention of official photographers, offering a more comprehensive narrative.

Among the notable photographs featured in this collection are well-known events such as the unofficial 1914 Christmas truce and the Battle of the Somme, presented from fresh angles. Other images transport us to distant locations like Samoa and China, juxtaposing contrasting images from the Home Front, which were censored during their time due to concerns about morale. Together, these images bring us closer to the realities of World War I than ever before, reminding us that the sweeping narrative of history was experienced as a series of poignant moments in individual lives.

The photographs presented here offer a profound testament to the human cost of the war, showcasing the bravery and resilience of those who served on the front lines. They remind us of the sacrifices made and the lives lost, and serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance and reflection. As we continue to commemorate the centennial of World War I, these photographs serve as a valuable resource for understanding the past and shaping our understanding of the world today.

Weight: 730g
Dimension: 238 x 195 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912423019