Our understanding of the origins of the Second World War have been transformed in recent decades. The opening of the archives of the major combatant powers, changing perspectives, and the reorientation of international history away from a narrow preoccupation with diplomacy have all resulted in a more rounded conception of international relations in the period, embracing also the role of economics, strategy, propaganda, and intelligence.

This volume provides a clear and accessible guide to these changes, and to the current state of debate. Presenting some of the most important contributions in the field, it addresses key issues and controversies; the roles of the democratic and revisionist powers, issues of economics, strategy, and opinion; and the road to war itself. Each section is supported by an editorial introduction, explaining the significance of the material selected and, in particular, the light it throws on what continues to be at stake in debates about the origins of the war.