Books Quote by Barbara Tuchman
““To the anonymous reviewer of George F. Kennan's book, Russia Leaves the War, who wrote in the Times Literary Supplement (London), January 4, 1957, this sentence: "We still do not know at any level that really matters, why Wilson took the fateful decision to bring the United States into the First World War," I would like to say hello.””
About This Quote
Source Article: Review of Russia Leaves the War by George F. Kennan, Times Literary Supplement, 1957
The author humorously greets a reviewer who questioned Wilson’s motives for entering WWI, highlighting uncertainty about historical decisions.
In simple terms: The writer jokes about a reviewer’s doubt on why Wilson entered WWI.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge uncertainty and use humor to engage.
Themes
history
war
humor
Mood
wry
reflective
Type
satirical
historical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- public discourse
- teaching history
Key Concepts
historical analysis
authorial voice
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humor affect our perception of historical debate?
- What can we learn from questioning leaders’ motives?
A Different Perspective
The comment may obscure the seriousness of the historical inquiry.
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