Plotting for Peace: American Peacemakers, British Codebreakers, and Britain at War, 1914–1917

Rival factions in Asquith's government battled over whether to seek a negotiated end to the First World War, with Asquith and his supporters secretly seeking to end the war. British intelligence supported President Woodrow Wilson's efforts to convene a peace conference and used decrypts to sabotage these efforts. This book's findings transform our understanding of British strategy and international diplomacy during the war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 444 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

As the First World War progressed, Britain found itself increasingly reliant on the United States for economic support. Rival factions within Asquith's government were engaged in a heated debate over whether to pursue a negotiated end to the conflict. In this captivating new account, Daniel Larsen delves into the untold story of how Asquith and his supporters secretly sought to end the war. Larsen reveals how they actively supported President Woodrow Wilson's efforts to convene a peace conference, utilizing British intelligence to undermine these peace initiatives and aid Asquith's rivals. By deciphering and reading all US diplomatic telegrams between Europe and Washington, Britain gained a significant advantage in the ongoing battle between the Treasury, which feared a looming financial catastrophe, and Lloyd George and the generals. These decrypts played a pivotal role in shaping British strategy and international diplomacy during the war.

The revelations presented in this book fundamentally alter our understanding of British wartime tactics and diplomacy. It sheds light on the complex dynamics within Asquith's government and the intricate interplay between various factions, both within and outside of Britain. The use of intelligence and covert operations to influence the course of the war highlights the strategic importance of information warfare in the era of total war.

Furthermore, this book provides valuable insights into the broader geopolitical context of the war. It explores the complex relationships between Britain, the United States, and other major powers, as well as the impact of the war on international relations. The book's examination of the role of the Treasury and the generals in shaping British policy adds depth to our understanding of the decision-making processes during this critical period.

Overall, "The Secret End of the First World War" is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal chapter in world history. Daniel Larsen's meticulous research and compelling storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in military history, international relations, and the history of the 20th century.

Weight: 654g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108708197