The aftermath of World War I created conditions that ultimately led to another global conflict. Rothwell demonstrates how the Treaty of Versailles, while attempting to prevent future wars, actually contributed to German resentment and economic instability that Hitler would later exploit.

The book provides a nuanced analysis of how Western powers' attempts to accommodate Nazi Germany's demands reflected both diplomatic miscalculation and genuine desire to avoid another devastating war. This policy's gradual failure marked a crucial turning point in pre-war international relations.

Rothwell uniquely parallels the escalating situations in Europe and Asia, showing how seemingly separate conflicts were interconnected. This dual focus helps readers understand the truly global nature of the war's origins and the complex interplay between Eastern and Western events.