Book description
From the author of the acclaimed The Thirty Years War and Heart of Europe, a masterful, landmark reappraisal of German military history, and of the preconceptions about German militarism since before the rise of Prussia and the world wars. German military history is typically viewed as an inexorable march to the rise of Prussia and the two world wars, the road paved by militarism and the result a specifically German way of war. Peter Wilson challenges this narrative. Looking beyond Prussia to German-speaking Europe across the last five centuries, Wilson finds little unique or preordained in German militarism or warfighting. Iron and Blood takes as its starting point the consolidation of the Holy Roman Empire, which created new mechanisms for raising troops but also for resolving disputes diplomatically. Both the empire and the Swiss Confederation were largely defensive in orientation, while German participation in foreign wars was most often in partnership with allies. The primary aggressor in Central Europe was not Prussia but the Austrian Habsburg monarchy, yet Austria's strength owed much to its ability to secure allies. Prussia, meanwhile, invested in militarization but maintained a part-time army well into the nineteenth century. Alongside Switzerland, which relied on traditional militia, both states exemplify the longstanding civilian element within German military power. Only after Prussia's unexpected victory over France in 1871 did Germans and outsiders come to believe in a German gift for warfare--a special capacity for high-speed, high-intensity combat that could overcome numerical disadvantage. It took two world wars to expose the fallacy of German military genius. Yet even today, Wilson argues, Germany's strategic position is misunderstood. The country now seen as a bastion of peace spends heavily on defense in comparison to its peers and is deeply invested in less kinetic contemporary forms of coercive power.
Congo Wire
ListenBook's user-friendly audio filters and controls have made my audiobook sessions more interactive and engaging. ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience. With ListenBook Pro, I can enjoy super long audiobooks. It's fantastic! The ability to organize my library is a huge plus. Everything is so neat and tidy.
Emerald Goddess
This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any limitations. Say goodbye to monotony β this app's diverse format support and intuitive controls have turned my daily activities into thrilling audiobook adventures. π±π Tone adjustment adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I'm hooked!
Sylvester Eye
Audiobooks have turned my mundane activities into opportunities for learning and enjoyment. This app is my constant companion, making every moment a chance to discover new worlds. With this app, every moment is an opportunity to dive into a new story.
Star Scratch
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one convenient app. Listening to audiobooks on this app has become my favorite way to relax. π₯ Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears β audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. π΅π ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use. The intuitive chapter navigation and quick access to controls make my audiobook experience seamless.
BearDrift
ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. This app has brought the magic of books back into my life. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly β this app's design is a true winner. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives. ListenBook is a game-changer for audiobook lovers. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
VisionVortex
The selection of classics is a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts. This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. The range of supported formats is impressive. No more converting files! Supports all audio formats I use without issues. Very happy.
Voluntary
The sound quality is outstanding β it's like having a movie theater in my ears! ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best.
Zero Charisma
This app's sleek design and effortless controls have made audiobook listening an immersive experience. Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is a game-changer. ListenBook has become my workout buddy. It's seamlessly integrated with Apple Watch.
Subzero Taffy
I'm absolutely in love with this app! The interface is so intuitive and user-friendly. The app's stability is impressive β it runs smoothly without any glitches. I'm hooked on this app's effortless downloading process β I can have my favorite audiobooks in seconds. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. This audiobook performed its function without excelling. The narrator's delivery was straightforward and easy to follow, though lacking in dramatic flair. The recording quality was decent with only occasional minor inconsistencies in volume. An acceptable but forgettable listening experience.
FearLeSS
ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. This app has become my go-to companion, making my daily routine more exciting and insightful. π My audiobook haven β this app is like a door to endless adventures and knowledge! ππ Looping playback is a game-changer for my study routine. It helps me retain information effectively. Downloading books directly in the app is so easy. Highly recommend!
Golden Cougar
Audiobooks have made my workouts more enjoyable, and I'm seeing results! I'm hooked on this app's sleek design and seamless performance β it's a must-have for any reader. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like the app knows what I need. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising.
StarStrider
ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a seamless addition to my daily routine. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my library look organized and professional. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly.
Mr. 44
π Rekindling my love for reading β this app has reintroduced me to the joy of books in a whole new way. ππ₯ Discovering new literary worlds has never been this easy. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audiobook library is at my fingertips. ππ
Ladybird
βοΈ Turning mundane tasks into exciting adventures β this app makes folding laundry a breeze with audiobooks! ππ§ π Turning road trips into unforgettable adventures β audiobooks keep me entertained on the journey! ππ ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy.
Skool
This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of literary escape. This app's convenience has made my downtime more rewarding and enriching. Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Amphibi-Dangerous
ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. The statistics feature in ListenBook provides valuable insights into my audiobook habits, helping me learn and grow.
Ship Whip
I can't get enough of the celebrity narrators β they add a unique charm to each book. Perfect for listening to educational content. Highly recommend!
Bowler
I've never been so entertained while doing household chores β this app is a lifesaver! This app's ease of use has made reading more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. The download options are versatile, making it a breeze to get my favorite audiobooks on the go.
RealmRanger
The bookmark feature is a lifesaver β no more losing my place in the story! πΆββοΈπ Staying entertained during leisurely walks β audiobooks make outdoor time delightful! πΆββοΈπ§ πͺ Doubling the impact of my workouts β exercising and exploring stories, all thanks to this app! πͺπ§ ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use.
SunVolt
ListenBook has made managing and enjoying audiobooks a seamless and delightful experience. With this app, I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and real life.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience