Norman Angell Libri

First published in 1909, The Great Illusion sets out to answer one of the greatest questions in human history: Why is there war? Specifically, Angell wishes to discuss why there is war between the countries of Europe, which seem to always be at one another's throats. Angell refutes the belief that military power results in greater wealth and instead proposes that advanced economies based on trade and contract law can only generate value in the absence of military upset. War destroys any wealth that conquerors may have wanted to obtain, making the whole enterprise pointless. A deep understanding of this would, then, end the need for war. Students of history, political science, and peace studies will find much to ponder and much to argue with in this classic text. British journalist and politician SIR RALPH NORMAN ANGELL (1872-1967) was an executive for the World Committee against War and Fascism and a member of the executive committee of the League of Nations Union. Knighted in 1931, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1933. From 1905 to 1912, he was the Paris editor for the Daily Mail, and served as a Labour MP from 1929 to 1931. He is also the author of Peace Theories and the Balkan War and The Fruits of Victory.

Norman Angell's influential book on the relationship between arms and industry is as relevant today as it was when it was first published in 1913. Arguing that war is economically unproductive and ultimately harmful to nations' wealth, Angell persuasively makes the case for disarmament.

The book is a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections from age, such as marks and flawed pages. It aims to protect and promote cultural literature, offering a high-quality, affordable edition that remains faithful to the original text.

Culturally significant, this work has been chosen by scholars for its importance to civilization's knowledge base. It has been meticulously reproduced from the original artifact, preserving its authenticity, including copyright references and library stamps. This dedication to accuracy ensures a faithful representation of the original text, providing readers with a glimpse into historical documentation and its significance in the scholarly world.

Hesperides Press focuses on reviving classic literature from the early 1900s and earlier, offering modern editions that maintain the original text and artwork. These republished works are designed to be affordable and high-quality, making scarce and expensive historical books accessible to a broader audience.

Norman Angell's 1916 work emphasizes the necessity for the United States to establish a clear foreign policy amidst World War I. He argues against the risks of half-preparedness, asserting that neutrality is insufficient for protecting national interests and maintaining global standing. Angell advocates for a decisive approach rooted in peace and international cooperation, highlighting the potential perils of indecision during crises. This book serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of a well-defined foreign policy in turbulent times.