'Purdue has successfully updated his short history of the Second World War, adding new insights and incorporating recent research.' - George Peden, University of Stirling, UK 'An excellent short work on the war.' - Spencer C. Tucker, Virginia Military Institute, USA Praise for the first edition: 'Clear, readable, judicious and incisive - Bill Purdue canters through the historiographical minefield with enviable poise.' - Antony Lentin, Reader in History, Open University, UK 'Essential text for any serious student of the subject.' - Sue Bruley, Portsmouth University, UK