The Crime Against Europe: A Possible Outcome of the War of 1914

by Roger Casement

"The Crime Against Europe: A Possible Outcome of the War of 1914" by Roger Casement is a historical account written in the early 20th century, shortly before the outbreak of World War I. The text provides an analysis of the underlying causes of the war and criticizes the prevailing European militarism, arguing that the tensions leading to the conflict stemmed from deeper political motives and alliances rather than mere military ambitions. Casement draws upon his extensive knowledge of European history and his experiences in the English consular service to explore the dynamics of power, imperialism, and nationalism that influenced the major players in the conflict. The opening of the book sets the stage for Casement's argument by stating that the articles collected here were written before the war commenced, allowing for a prophetic insight into the political landscape of Europe at that time. He discusses the motivations behind the combatant nations and critiques the established narratives surrounding the causes of the war, particularly the focus on militarism as the sole factor. Casement emphasizes the role of alliances, especially the relationships between Britain, France, and Russia against Germany, while highlighting how many nations behaved in ways that eventually led to widespread conflict. He argues that the quest for peace must begin by understanding these motivations and the complex web of international relations that existed prior to the war.