This course considers the First World War as the first global war of the Twentieth Century. It will develop students' knowledge of this conflict by examining the causes of the war, the major military theatres of operations, the social and economic mobilization of civil society, issues of loyalty and dissent, the relationships between the major alliance partners, and the effects of the war in Europe and in the rest of the world. Students will also analyse how the First World War has been variously remembered or forgotten in the nations that fought it. This course will give students an understanding how major conflicts can be catalysts for change for states, societies and individuals.