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The War of the World: A New History of the 20th Century
The War of the World A New History of the 20th Century
Actor: n/a
Director: n/a
Genres: Television, Documentary
UR     2008     3hr 0min

Harvard historian Niall Ferguson presents an explosive challenge to common assumptions about the 20th century. In this extraordinarily written and stunningly filmed series, Ferguson challenges nearly all our enduring assum...  more »

     
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Movie Details

Actor: n/a
Director: n/a
Genres: Television, Documentary
Sub-Genres: Television, Documentary
Studio: Pbs (Direct)
Format: DVD - Color,Widescreen - Closed-captioned
DVD Release Date: 08/12/2008
Release Year: 2008
Run Time: 3hr 0min
Screens: Color,Widescreen
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaDVD Credits: 1
Total Copies: 0
Members Wishing: 2
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Languages: English

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Movie Reviews

Engaging history with a fresh set of eyes
Peter Lorenzi | Maryland, USA | 09/12/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"Niall Ferguson provides a lively, visual and vivid account of the twentieth century, questioning some well-worn assumptions and offering examples of perhaps a slightly revisionist theory of war and progress in the twentieth century. This is a good classroom companion or alternative to a history textbook and Ferguson's style is warm and provocative without being pedantic or argumentative. Who says history has to be boring?"
A must see for any history buff
Sick Minute | New Jersey | 06/23/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)

"This documentary looks at the violence of the 20th Century in new light. Harvard historian Niall Ferguson takes a comprehensive look at the totality of conflict from the turn of the century, up through to the end of the Cold War and turns some of the conventional wisdom on its head. Great powers did not just wage war in the two World Wars, but engaged in various hostilities throughout the century, which in hindsight, looks more like a global 100-years war. Economic volatility, ethnic disintegration, and empires in decline were the root causes of these many pitiful wars that persisted in what was otherwise a century of unprecedented human progress. Moreover, the disruptions to the distribution of global power favored the rise of the East, more so than the West, in what turned out to be a 'tainted victory' for the allies at the end of WWII. The "Third World's War" was the ultimate result, as dueling superpowers waged war by proxy in undeveloped nations. These key points make this truly one of the most compelling documentaries ever presented, covering the two World Wars and the events that link them -- definitely a must see for anyone seriously interested in the history of warfare."
Most Impressive Effort & An interesting Thesis about Racism!
David D. Lawson | The Peoples Republic of California | 01/20/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)

"At the very first,I was most impressed by the Presenters efforts to cover what at 1st is ground that has been covered in great detail by other historians. (The Russo- Japanese War, The 1905 Russian Revolution, WWI, The Balkans problems,The Rise of Gangster States of Lenin, Stalin,Hitler, Imperial Japan & WWII)
But what really grabbed my attention and respect, was his coverage of what he called the "Third World" war. Which was fought by the competing Super Powers of the "Cold" War era in the 3rd world in a series of "Bush Wars". (Which were devastating to the locals) I was only disappointed that no mention of the Korean War was made. What I also really enjoyed was the section on the Fall of the Soviet Empire. I was however surprised on was not mentioned. Like how flat footed the West was by the sudden collaspe of that Empire. But that is only real issue that I take with him. All in all his film is a real "sleeper" but most worthy of your time or coin if this is in your area of interest."
Great insight, Ferguson at his best
Jean Le Lupi | New York City | 12/19/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"History comes to life through his passionate and insightful presence. A great recap of the last 100 years with great new insights in the human nature and the insanity of war.

If you like Ferguson, I'd also recommend "The World Without US", a film with a futuristic outlook about America's role in the world.

The World Without US - With Niall Ferguson"