The Great War of 189-: A Forecast

"The Great War of 189—: A Forecast" by P. H. Colomb et al. is a speculative military narrative written in the late 19th century. This work anticipates a massive conflict involving various European powers, particularly focusing on the tensions in the Balkans and the complex web of political alliances. It features an array of historical and fictional events set against the backdrop of impending war, utilizing insights from military and political experts of the time. At the start of the narrative, the authors present a vivid account of an attempted assassination of Prince Ferdinand of Bulgaria, which stirs diplomatic tensions and foreshadows larger conflicts in Europe. This event triggers heightened anxieties among major powers and plots a precarious path towards war, showcasing the intricate political landscape filled with nationalism and interventionism. The narrative deftly combines real historical figures with fictional scenarios to explore the buildup to a major military confrontation, setting the tone for a dramatic exploration of the perils of international relations on the brink of war. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Vice-Admiral Philip Howard Colomb, RN. Born in Knockbrex, near Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, he was a Royal Navy officer, historian, critic and inventor. He was the son of General George Thomas Colomb (1787–1874). His younger brother Sir John Colomb was also a soldier and strategist of the Royal Navy.