The World at War: The Landmark Oral History

When Sir Jeremy Isaacs made the documentary series “World at War”, the world wasn’t terribly interested in old men harping on about their experiences in World War Two. A quarter of a century had gone by and the United States’ involvement in Vietnam had made war a non-subject.

It is, therefore, so special that such a series was made. The general outline was well planned and the editorial discipline with regards ensuring footage used was truly genuine made sure it would stand the test of time.

The greatest asset Isaacs had was that his film was made at a time when some of the key decision makers were available to interview. Karl Wolff, Traudl Junge, Mark Clark, Lord Mountbatten, General Antonov and Ira Eaker to name just a few.

This book is a transcript of those interviews, some of which remained on the cutting room floor. The unheard interviews give a greater idea of the political side of the conflict. The editing and chapter introductions are by the late, great Richard Holmes, who gives a modern (2007) perspective to the subjects and interviewees themselves. For instance, the fact that we now have proof that Alger Hiss was a Soviet spy and that Goronwy Rees also briefly worked for the Soviets.

For those that enjoy WW2 history, the series is a must have, and this book is an added bonus.