The Proud Tower, or A Portrait of the World Before the War, 1890-1914

The Proud Tower: A Portrait of the World Before the War, 1890–1914 is a historical work by Barbara Tuchman. Published in 1966, it offers a survey of European and American society, culture, and politics during the period leading up to World War I.1

The book examines the underlying tensions and societal characteristics of the era, highlighting a sense of pride in expanding power coupled with deep insecurity about the future. It details the significant militarism and arms race that characterized this period, with European powers increasing military expenditures and developing elaborate mobilization plans. This environment, marked by nationalism, imperialism, and a belief in social Darwinism, ultimately contributed to the outbreak of World War I.12