"Ordeal by Battle" by Frederick Scott Oliver is a historical account written in the early 20th century, particularly around the time of World War I. The book delves into the complexities surrounding the causes of war, especially focusing on the political dynamics leading to the conflicts in Europe. Oliver's analysis reveals how various nations navigated shifting allegiances and misunderstandings, ultimately culminating in war. The opening of the book outlines Oliver's exploration of the factors that fueled the outbreak of World War I through a detailed examination of the historical context and international relationships at play. He reflects on the idea that while Britain desired peace, other nations, particularly Germany and Austria, were more inclined towards conflict. The narrative sets the stage for a deep dive into the attitudes, aspirations, and miscalculations of various countries, including the role of national identity and political ambitions, all of which contributed to the tragic circumstances of the war. (This is an automatically generated summary.)