A BOOK OF this scale requires the support of a great deal of people, all of whom have given their time and advice freely. Very many people assisted me by giving me their views on what should be included in my 100 object list. Jo de Vries at The History Press provided the original inspiration for this project. My close friend Chris Foster has been a constant support and has helped me craft the images contained within. Rob Schäfer, an unstinting purveyor of historical wisdom, materially enhanced my views of Imperial Germany, while Paul Reed, generous to a tee, supplied images and advice, as did Alex Churchill, taking time out of her writing schedule. My understanding of the naval war has been greatly enhanced by calm advice provided by Phil Weir, and Commander John Drummond is thanked for his images of HMS Vindictive. I am grateful to the many people who have provided images or have allowed me to photograph objects, particularly Richard Archer, Steve Britton, Paul Laidlaw, Laurie Milner and Ted Peacock; special mention must be given to Howard Williamson for access to his superb collection of period weapons and militaria. The Australian War Memorial kindly supplied an image of their Gallipoli trench sign. The support and belief of Julie and James provides the platform for all my endeavours.