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Die sogenannte rollende Landstrasse zwischen Freiburg im Breisgau und Novara ist Geschichte. Der Lastwagen-Transport auf der Schiene lohnt sich nicht mehr. Im Kanton Uri sind die Befürchtungen vor noch mehr Verkehr nun gross. Ausserdem: (00:03:57) BS: «So lovely» - Mit amerikanischen Touristen auf dem Basler Weihnachtsmarkt Der Basler Weihnachtsmarkt hat sich in den letzten Jahren zu einem regelrechten Wirtschaftsfaktor entwickelt. 44 Millionen Franken Wertschätzung bringt er der Stadt – das hat eine Studie von Basel Tourismus ergeben. Ein Teil davon machen die amerikanischen Touristinnen und Touristen aus. Viele von ihnen reisen mit luxuriösen Fluss-Kreuzfahrtschiffen an und machen eine Art «christmas market hopping» von Basel über Strassburg, Baden-Baden bis nach Köln. Während die Flusskreuzfahrten vor 10 Jahren ausschliesslich im Sommer stattfanden («im Winter war hier tote Hose»), sind die Hafenplätze mittlerweile auch im Dezember voll. (00:06:58) AG: Wenig Wasser führt zu unangenehmen Gerüchen In der Aargauer Gemeinde Oftringen sorgte ein übler Gestank wochenlang für Unruhe. Nun ist klar, warum in Oftringen ein fauliger Geruch in der Luft liegt. Offenbar gibt es immer mehr wassersparende Spülungen. Dies führt dazu, dass die Kanalisationen weniger durchgespült werden. Nun haben sich in Oftringen also Schmutzreste abgelagert. Wenn nun der Luftdruck wegen der tiefen Temperaturen sinkt, dann führt das dazu, dass die Luft aus der Kanalisation gedrückt wird. Da es in den vergangenen Tagen wärmer wurde, nahm der Gestank ab. Die Kanalisation soll nun aufwendig durchgespült werden. (00:09:53) ZH: Der Name Sauber verschwindet – Hinwil im Zürcher Oberland bleibt F1-Standort Seit letztem Wochenende ist der Name Sauber in der Formel 1 Geschichte. Damit verschwindet der Schweizer, der Zürcher Bezug des Rennstalls. Dennoch bleibt Hinwil ein wichtiger Standort in der Formel-1-Welt. Der deutsche Autobauer Audi weiterhin im Zürcher Oberland bleiben. Das freut den Hinwiler Gemeindepräsident. (00:12:03) SG: Wunderkammer Stiftsbibliothek Wunderkammern aus dem 16-19 Jahrhundert sind die Vorgänger der heutigen Museen. Auch in der Stiftsbibliothek gab es eine solche. Nun werden die Schätze in der aktuellen Winterausstellung gezeigt. Was es mit Straussenpokalen, magischen Trinkbechern auf sich hat?

Könnte eingefrorenes Staatsvermögen aus Russland zur Ukrainehilfe der EU werden? Europa scheint einen Weg gefunden zu haben. Das Problem: Er könnte den Euro und Europas Rechtsstaatlichkeit zerstören. In Brüssel sind bei der Abwicklungsstelle Euroclear rund 193 Milliarden Euro russische Staatsgelder eingefroren, der Großteil davon Reserven der russischen Zentralbank. Die Europäische Union prüft derzeit ein Modell, bei dem diese Vermögen als Grundlage für einen zinslosen »Reparationskredit« für die Ukraine dienen sollen. Juristisch ist der Ansatz heikel. Staats- und Zentralbankvermögen genießen völkerrechtlich in der Regel Immunität. Kritiker sprechen von einer rechtlichen Grauzone und warnen vor einem möglichen Präzedenzfall. Befürworter verweisen dagegen auf Russlands Verantwortung für den Angriffskrieg. In dieser Ausgabe von »Acht Milliarden« spricht Host Juan Moreno mit Britta Sandberg, SPIEGEL-Korrespondentin in Brüssel. Sie beschreibt in der Episode das rechtliche Konstrukt, mit dem die EU die eingefrorenen russischen Staatsgelder zur Finanzierung der Ukraine nutzen will. Der Europäische Rat der Staats- und Regierungschefs werde am 18. und 19. Dezember eine Entscheidung treffen, so Sandberg, und obwohl sie anfangs skeptisch gewesen sei, hält sie es inzwischen für durchaus möglich, dass die EU das eingefrorene Geld für die Ukraine einsetzen wird. Mehr zum Thema: (S+) Russlands Angriffskrieg Ukraine legt USA aktualisierten Friedensplan vor: https://www.spiegel.de/ausland/us-friedensplan-fuer-die-ukraine-diesmal-ist-es-ernst-a-5af23c60-f434-4b53-8a9e-f39e36b2beca (S+) Wie Trump und Putin Europa angreifen: https://www.spiegel.de/ausland/wie-donald-trump-die-europaeer-an-wladimir-putin-verraet-a-2fb67045-1ab6-4caf-9467-fceeec9351c6 Abonniert »Acht Milliarden«, um die nächste Folge nicht zu verpassen. Wir freuen uns, wenn ihr den Podcast weiterempfehlt oder uns eine Bewertung hinterlasst.+++ Alle Infos zu unseren Werbepartnern finden Sie hier. Die SPIEGEL-Gruppe ist nicht für den Inhalt dieser Seite verantwortlich. +++ Den SPIEGEL-WhatsApp-Kanal finden Sie hier. Alle SPIEGEL Podcasts finden Sie hier. Mehr Hintergründe zum Thema erhalten Sie mit SPIEGEL+. Entdecken Sie die digitale Welt des SPIEGEL, unter spiegel.de/abonnieren finden Sie das passende Angebot. Informationen zu unserer Datenschutzerklärung.

Die EU will künftig den Verkauf von mit neuen Gentechnikverfahren veränderten Lebensmitteln ohne Kennzeichnung erlauben. Damit werde den Konsument:innen die Wahlfreiheit im Supermarkt genommen, sich gegen Produkte mit Gentechnik zu entscheiden, kritisieren sowohl ÖVP-Landwirtschaftsminister Norbert Totschnig als auch Verbraucherschützer scharf. NGOs befürchten, dass die großen Saatgutkonzerne durch neue Patente heimische Landwirte abhängen. Befürworter der Neuregelung sehen hingegen klimawandel-resistentere Sorten sowie ertragreichere Ernten als größte Vorteile in der neuen Gentechnik. Der Streit ums Essen endet nicht bei der Herstellung von Lebensmitteln, auch die Bezeichnung sorgt für Ärger. So sollen pflanzliche Alternativen in der EU nicht mehr “Schnitzel” und “Burger” heißen dürfen. Sind gentechnisch veränderte Lebensmittel unbedenklich? Was bedeutet die Neuregelung für heimische Landwirte? Und ist der Streit um den “Veggie-Burger” gerechtfertigt? Gäste: **Anna Stürgkh", EU-Abgeordnete, NEOS **Johannes Gutmann**, Gründer und Geschäftsführer von Sonnentor **Peter Schmiedlechner**, Bundesobmann der Freiheitlichen Bauernschaft Österreich und FPÖ-Nationalratsabgeordneter **Timo Küntzle**, Agrarjournalist und Buchautor **Franz Fischler**, ehemaliger EU-Kommissar für Landwirtschaft Moderation: **Manuela Raidl**

Die WM Auslosung samt Friedenspreis war ein Schmierentheater, welches trotz schlimmster Befürchtungen noch grotesker ablief, als erwartet. Der DFB-Pokal ist, vor allem aus Berliner sich weiterhin Spannend. Nach der Gala gegen den 1. FC Kaiserslautern gastiert nun der SC Freiburg im Olympiastadion. Im Tabellenkeller ist einiges passiert. Mainz und Augsburg trennen sich von ihren Cheftrainern, Heidenheim gewinnt zwei Spiele in Folge mit Last-Minute Toren und der HSV verschafft sich Luft in einem dramatischen Nordderby. In der zweiten Liga geht der Blick in Richtung Aufstiegsrennen. Schalke marschiert und scheint aktuell kaum zu stoppen zu sein. Bei Paderborn ist der gute Lauf mit drei Niederlagen in Serie jäh beendet worden. Die Hertha hat nach 5 Siegen in Folge zum ersten Mal eine Niederlage einstecken müssen, sind aber immer noch in der Verfolgergruppe vertreten.In der dritten Liga erwischt Energie Cottbus einen perfekten Spieltag. Nicht nur, dass das Topspiel gegen den MSV dramatisch gewonnen wird, auch die Konkurrenz lässt fast durch die Bank weg Federn.

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⭐️ Buchempfehlung: ⁠Nie Wieder Sinnlos

When we think of 1940, we picture Dunkirk, the fall of France and the BEF racing for the Channel. But behind the headlines were real officers making real decisions — the brigadiers. Too senior to ignore, not quite famous enough to be remembered. In this episode, my friend and part-time co-host Chris Brice talks to military historian Dr Phil McCarty about his new book Point of Failure: British Brigadiers in France and Norway, 1940. They explore who these men were, how they were selected, and why some rose to greatness while others quietly vanished after the débâcle of 1940. Expect discussion of staff college bottlenecks, Monty and Brooke's patronage, public school myths, territorials, and why the brigadiers of Normandy look both similar to — and subtly different from — their 1940 predecessors. Plus some cracking stories along the way. If you enjoy British Army history told through real people rather than map arrows, you'll enjoy this one. Purchase Phil's book here - https://www.helion.co.uk/military-history-books/point-of-failure-british-brigadiers-in-france-and-norway-1940.php  Discover Chris Brice's books here - https://www.helion.co.uk/people/christopher-brice.php  Join my mailing list for a free eBook about the Zulu War - https://redcoathistory.com/ 

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Tagesanbruch – die Diskussion Was bringt einen überzeugten Pazifisten dazu, zu sagen: So geht es nicht mehr? Darüber spricht Moderatorin Nicole Fuchs-Wiecha mit t-online-Chefredakteur Florian Harms und dem Journalisten und Autor Artur Weigandt. Weigandt, aufgewachsen in einer postsowjetischen Spätaussiedlerfamilie, war sicher: Er würde nie eine Waffe in die Hand nehmen. Dann erlebt er Bombennächte in der Ukraine, arbeitet als Übersetzer für Soldaten an Leopard-Panzern – und wird zum Befürworter einer neuen Wehrhaftigkeit, militärisch und im Kopf. Im Podcast geht es um die Frage, ob Pazifismus in Zeiten des Krieges noch ausreicht, was Wehrdienst und Pflichtjahr für unsere Gesellschaft bedeuten würden, und warum das friedliche Europa sich trotzdem rüsten muss, wenn es seine Freiheit bewahren will. Anmerkungen, Meinungen oder Fragen gern per Sprachnachricht an: podcasts@t-online.de Produktion und Schnitt: Nicole Fuchs-Wiecha Transkript: Alle Folgen der Diskussion am Wochenende finden Sie in einer Playlist auf Spotify hier: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1d0dXXtJNcYAF7jQ3oRPg9?si=0f24794f3fe14a27 Den „Tagesanbruch“-Podcast gibt es immer montags bis samstags gegen 6 Uhr zum Start in den Tag – am Wochenende in einer längeren Diskussion. Verpassen Sie keine Folge und abonnieren Sie uns bei Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3v1HFmv3V3Zvp1R4BT3jlO?si=klrETGehSj2OZQ_dmB5Q9g), Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/de/podcast/t-online-tagesanbruch/id1374882499?mt=2), Amazon Music (https://music.amazon.de/podcasts/961bad79-b3ba-4a93-9071-42e0d3cdd87f/tagesanbruch-von-t-online) oder überall sonst, wo es Podcasts gibt. Wenn Ihnen der Podcast gefällt, lassen Sie gern eine Bewertung da.

Weil der Kalkofen irreparabel defekt ist, steht die Zuckerproduktion in Frauenfeld wohl noch länger still. Die Rüben werden nun durch die halbe Schweiz bis nach Aarberg ins Berner Seeland transportiert, zur zweiten Zuckerfabrik der Schweiz. Weitere Themen: (00:03:32) LU: Steht der Luzerner Hirschpark vor dem Aus? Seit knapp 120 Jahren gibt es in der Stadt Luzern in der Nähe des Kantonsspitals einen Hirschpark, der heute 65 Aren gross ist und in dem rund 30 Dam- und Rothirsche in zwei Rudeln leben. Betrieben wird er von einem Förderverein, der finanziell von der Stadt unterstützt wird. Doch mit dieser Unterstützung soll bald Schluss sein: Die Stadtregierung hält es nicht länger für eine staatliche Aufgabe, die Haltung von Hirschen zu unterstützen und möchte das Gelände lieber für einen Park nutzen. Widerstand aus der Bevölkerung ist vorprogrammiert. (00:06:12) SO: Ist Tierausstellungs-Finanzierung eine Stadtaufgabe? Einen Schritt weiter ist man in Olten: Die Volière im öffentlichen Park dürfte schon bald Geschichte sein. Der Volièren-Verein forderte von der Stadt jährlich 100'000 Franken für den Erhalt der Anlage. Die Bevölkerung hat eine Unterstützung an der Abstimmung am vergangenen Sonntag jedoch abgelehnt. Die Vereinsmitglieder sind frustriert. Damit gehe ein Stück Nostalgie und Tradition verloren, heisst es bei den Befürwortern. Entstanden sind sie Ende des 19. Jahrhunderts, als Vogelschutz und Vogelzucht in der Schweiz populär wurden. Sind solche Volièren noch zeitgemäss? (00:09:10) BS: Ein Bändeli für den ÖV Wer in Basel künftig im Tram oder im Bus unterwegs ist und jemanden sieht mit einem Sonnenblumen-Bändeli – dann heisst das: Diese Person hat eine sogenannt «unsichtbare Behinderung». Zum Beispiel Autismus oder eine Angststörung. Wer unter so einer Behinderung leidet, kann das Bändeli bei den Basler Verkehrsbetrieben holen und im ÖV tragen. Die Hoffnung ist, dass die anderen Fahrgäste dann Rücksicht nehmen oder zumindest wissen: Diese Person empfindet das Tramfahren oder das Busfahren als besonders stressig. Die BVB ist der erste städtische Verkehrsbetrieb, der das anbietet. Aber was halten Betroffene davon? (00:12:00) ZH: Verein macht Kinderopern in Spitälern und Heimen Oper gilt gemeinhin als elitär und schwer zugänglich – besonders für Kinder. Der Verein Kinderoper will das ändern: Mit liebevoll inszenierten Aufführungen bringt er die Welt der Oper in Spitäler, Schulen und soziale Einrichtungen. Ziel ist es, Kindern Mut, Selbstvertrauen und Freude zu schenken – auch jenen, die sonst kaum Zugang zu Kultur haben. Schon bald gibt es auch eine Aufführung im Kinderspital Zürich. Wie macht man Oper für Kinder? Insbesondere für jene in schwierigen Situationen? Wir waren bei der Aufführung von «Hänsel und Gretel dabei!»

Basel-Stadt will zehn Prozent vom Einkommen automatisch dem Steueramt überweisen. Damit könnten Steuerschulden vermieden werden. Eine Lösung für die ganze Schweiz? Gemäss einer Erhebung des Bundes, waren 2020 fast zehn Prozent der Bevölkerung bei den Steuern in Verzug. Über 80% der Personen, welche sich 2024 bei der Schuldenberatung Schweiz gemeldet haben, hatten Steuerschulden. Allein die Basler Steuerverwaltung muss jährlich über 5000 Betreibungen einleiten. Damit soll nun Schluss sein. Der Grosse Rat des Kantons Basel-Stadt hat kürzlich einem Gegenvorschlag zu einer SP-Initiative zugestimmt. Vorgesehen ist ein pauschaler Lohnabzug von 10% (bzw. 5% in Riehen und Bettingen), der direkt dem Steueramt überwiesen wird. Der Lohnabzug ist für Unternehmen ab 50 Mitarbeitenden verpflichtend. Kleinere Unternehmen können freiwillig mitmachen. Mitarbeitende die den Direktabzug nicht wollen, müssen sich aktiv dagegen aussprechen (Opt-out-Lösung). Eine Steuererklärung muss weiterhin ausgefüllt werden. Der Arbeitgeberverband Region Basel, der Gewerbeverband Basel-Stadt und die Handelskammer beider Basel haben das Referendum ergriffen. Die Vorlage kommt damit voraussichtlich vors Volk. Bei einer Annahme könnte Basel-Stadt zum Vorbild für andere Kantone werden. Argumente der Gegner Der direkte Lohnabzug wird als Entmündigung der Bürger kritisiert, die für ihre Finanzen selbst verantwortlich sein sollten. Befürchtet wird zudem eine Schuldenverlagerung, da das Geld besonders bei knappen Budgets an anderer Stelle fehlen könnte. Da weiterhin eine Steuererklärung nötig ist, entfällt eine Entlastung für Steuerpflichtige. Für Unternehmen bedeutet der Direktabzug hingegen einen grossen bürokratischen Aufwand, obwohl nur rund ein Drittel der Arbeitnehmenden - die auch im Kanton wohnen - überhaupt betroffen wären. Argumente der Befürworter Die jährliche Steuerrechnung als hohe Einmalzahlung stellt für viele eine finanzielle Herausforderung dar und kann zu Verschuldung führen. Ein automatischer Direktabzug vom Lohn soll dieses Risiko senken. Eine Reduktion der Betreibungen ist auch im Interesse des Kantons, da sie hohen Aufwand und Steuerausfälle verursachen. Wie sinnvoll ist ein Lohnabzug für Steuern? Wer profitiert davon? Löst er das Schuldenproblem oder schafft er neue Probleme? Im FORUM diskutieren Gäste mit Hörerinnen und Hörern: · Ja zum Direktabzug: Pascal Pfister, Geschäftsleiter Schuldenberatung Schweiz / Grossrat SP/Basel-Stadt · Nein zum Direktabzug: Dominik Marbet, Direktor Arbeitgeberverband Region Basel Redaktion/Moderation: Stefan Flury Onlineredaktion: Angela Wagner

⭐️ Buchempfehlung: Löwengrube

Im Kanton Solothurn ist das Profi-Lotto künftig verboten. Das Stimmvolk hat das Verbot zum Schutz des Vereinslottos klar gutgeheissen, mit 68.3 Prozent. Das traditionelle Vereinslotto bleibe so erhalten, argumentierten die Befürworter. Weiter in der Sendung: · Nein zur Staf-Kürzung: Jetzt fehlen dem Kanton Solothurn 4 Millionen im Massnahmenpaket. · Ja zum Hauskauf: Solothurn darf ein zentral gelegenes Bürogebäude kaufen. · Grün verliert, SVP gewinnt: Eine Bilanz der Wahlen der Einwohnerräte im Aargau.

Hinweis: Das Urteil des BGH zum Wohnungseinbruchdiebstahl wurde am Samstag den 29.11.2025 hinzugefügt.OVG Lüneburg, Beschluss vom 19.11.2025 – 12 ME 92/25Wer die theoretische Fahrprüfung durch eine Stellvertreterin ablegen lässt, kann sich nicht auf jahrelange unfallfreie Fahrpraxis berufen. Der formelle Befähigungsnachweis ist tatbestandliche Erteilungs- und Behaltensvoraussetzung – kein bloßes Beweismittel.BVerwG, Urteil vom 13.08.2025 – 2 WD 27.24Oberfeldwebelin verbindet Krankschreibung mit DJ-Karriere als "B" (144.645 Abonnenten, Festival-Auftritte, Merchandise). Neun Befehle ignoriert, 23 öffentliche Auftritte trotz Verbots.VG Berlin, Urteil vom 26.11.2025 – VG 1 K 22/24Verbot des Mottos "From the river to the sea, you will get the hug you need" war unverhältnismäßig. Der konkrete Kontext mit dem Umarmungsangebot spreche gerade gegen Terrorismus-Nähe. Drei frühere Versammlungen derselben Veranstalterin verliefen friedlich.VG Berlin, Urteil vom 26.11.2025 – VG 1 K 187/24Polizei löste Kongress nach Abspielen einer Videobotschaft einer ausgeschlossenen Person auf und verbot Fortsetzung. VG: Jedenfalls unverhältnismäßig – mildere Mittel (Ausschluss einzelner Redner) wurden nicht ernsthaft erwogen.Thüringer Verfassungsgerichtshof, Urteil vom 26.11.2025 – VerfGH 9/25§ 8 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 ThürJAG ist mit der Thüringer Verfassung vereinbar. Wer gegen die freiheitlich-demokratische Grundordnung tätig war, kann vom juristischen Vorbereitungsdienst ausgeschlossen werden. BGH, Beschluss vom 04.11.2025 – 5 StR 483/25Wer in wohnlich eingerichtete Gartenlauben einbricht, begeht Wohnungseinbruchdiebstahl – auch wenn die Kleingartenverordnung das Übernachten verbietet und die Laube im Winter nicht genutzt wird. Entscheidend ist der Zweck der Stätte, nicht ihr tatsächlicher Gebrauch.Support the show

Manchmal spürst Du im Bewerbungsgespräch oder bei einer möglichen Beförderung diesen leisen Widerstand im Bauch: Irgendetwas passt nicht. Und trotzdem triffst Du die Entscheidung – aus Zeitdruck, aus Hoffnung oder weil das Team dringend jemanden braucht. In dieser Folge des LEITWOLF® Podcasts spricht Stefan darüber, warum genau das so gefährlich ist und warum Zweifel im Recruiting in den meisten Fällen schon die Antwort sind. Er teilt einen einfachen, klaren Leitsatz, den er bei seinem ersten Arbeitgeber gelernt und seitdem mit tausenden Führungskräften trainiert hat: „When there is doubt, there is no doubt.“ Anhand praktischer Beispiele zeigt Stefan, wie falsche Personalentscheidungen entstehen, warum der Wunsch, „endlich die Stelle zu besetzen“, so oft zu Fehlgriffen führt und wie viel Zeit, Vertrauen und Teamenergie dadurch verloren gehen. Du erfährst, wie Du Dein Bauchgefühl ernst nimmst, es rational prüfst, Verhalten statt schöne Worte bewertest und Dir im Zweifel bewusst eine zweite Perspektive holst. Und Du bekommst einen konkreten Impuls, wie Du allein und im Führungsteam systematisch bessere Recruiting-Entscheidungen triffst. ––– Nimm gerne an dieser anonymen Umfrage teil, damit wir diesen Podcast für Dich optimieren können: https://forms.gle/WTqCeutVXV2PsjBH9 Gefällt Dir dieser LEITWOLF® Leadership Podcast? Dann abonniere den Podcast und beurteile ihn bitte mit einer Sternebewertung und Rezension bei iTunes und/oder Spotify. Das hilft uns, diesen LEITWOLF® Podcast weiter zu verbessern und sichtbarer zu machen. ––– Buche Dir JETZT Deinen Zugang zur LEITWOLF® Academy: https://stefan-homeister-leadership.com/link/leitwolf-academy Möchtest Du konkrete Tipps oder Unterstützung, wie gutes Führen in Deinem Unternehmen definiert und umgesetzt werden kann, dann schreibe Stefan eine Mail an: homeister@stefan-homeister-leadership.com ODER Vereinbare hier direkt ein kostenloses Beratungsgespräch mit Stefan: https://stefan-homeister-leadership.com/link/calendly // LINKEDIN: https://stefan-homeister-leadership.com/link/linkedin // WEBSITE: https://stefan-homeister-leadership.com ® 2017 STEFAN HOMEISTER LEITWOLF® ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ____ LEITWOLF Podcast, Leadership, Führung, Management, Stefan Homeister, Podcast, Business Leadership, Erfolgreich führen, Unternehmensführung, Führungskompetenz, Leadership Development, Teammanagement, Leadership Skills, Selbstführung, Leadership Coaching, Leadership Training, Karriereentwicklung, Führungspersönlichkeit, Erfolgsstrategien, Unternehmenskultur, Motivation und Leadership, Leadership-Tipps, Leadership Insights, Change Management, Visionäre Führung, Leadership Interviews, Erfolgreiche Manager, Unternehmer-Tipps, Leadership-Best Practices, Leadership-Perspektiven, Business-Coaching

Wie grundlegend verändert Künstliche Intelligenz Unternehmen und Organisationen? Wie beeinflusst sie Entscheidungen auf Vorstands- und Aufsichtsratsebene? In dieser Episode des The Agenda Podcasts spricht Thomas Zimmerer, KI- und Digital-Board-Advisor sowie Mitglied in verschiedenen Aufsichtsräten, wie KI die Entscheidungsfindung auf oberster Managementebene beeinflusst und welche Herausforderungen und Chancen sich daraus ergeben. Zudem teilt er mit Sherpany-Podcast-Host Ingo Notthoff seine Erfahrungen aus Projekten, die er für global agierende Unternehmen in über 70 Ländern vorangetrieben hat und betont die Notwendigkeit, KI nicht nur zu diskutieren, sondern aktiv zu implementieren. Thomas Zimmerer sieht die Rolle von Vorständen und Aufsichtsräten als entscheidend für die Zukunftsfähigkeit von Unternehmen und betont die notwendige Befähigung aller Mitarbeitenden im Umgang mit KI.  Diese Impulse erhalten Sie in dieser Episode: KI ist wichtig für die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit der nächsten Jahre Vorstände müssen das Potenzial von KI verstehen und selbst nutzen Fachabteilungen sind oft die Treiber von KI-Initiativen Die Angst vor KI resultiert aus Unsicherheit und mangelndem Wissen KI sollte als neutraler Berater in Entscheidungsprozesse integriert werden Die Schulung der Mitarbeiter ist entscheidend für die Akzeptanz von KI Ein KI-Officer sollte die Rahmenbedingungen für KI-Projekte schaffen Thank you for listening! Visit us at Sherpany.com or follow us on LinkedIn for board, board committee, and executive meetings solutions.

Die Wall Street bleibt vor Thanksgiving freundlich: Dow +0,7 %, S&P 500 +0,7 %, Nasdaq +0,7 % – damit steuern die Indizes auf den vierten Gewinntag in Folge zu. Tech führt den Markt an: Oracle +4 %, Nvidia +1 %, Microsoft +1 %, während Alphabet nach dem Bericht über mögliche TPU-Deals mit Meta erneut ein Rekordhoch markiert. Der Markt erholt sich weiter vom moderaten 4-%-Pullback im November – Dip-Buyer bleiben aktiv. Gleichzeitig preisen die Futures eine über 80%ige Wahrscheinlichkeit für eine Fed-Zinssenkung im Dezember ein. Im politischen Fokus: Trump könnte vor Weihnachten den neuen Fed-Chef nominieren; Favorit laut Bloomberg ist Kevin Hassett, ein Befürworter niedrigerer Zinsen. Insgesamt bleibt November jedoch ein schwacher Monat, mit S&P 500 und Dow etwa 1 % im Minus und dem Nasdaq rund 3 % tiefer. Die US-Börsen bleiben am Donnerstag geschlossen, am Freitag wird nur verkürzt gehandelt. Abonniere den Podcast, um keine Folge zu verpassen! ____ Folge uns, um auf dem Laufenden zu bleiben: • X: http://fal.cn/SQtwitter • LinkedIn: http://fal.cn/SQlinkedin • Instagram: http://fal.cn/SQInstagram

In this episode we travel to Cambrai and tell the story of this tank attack through the eyes of the soldiers who were there, rather than the history books. We talk to historian Neal Russell about 2 soldiers he discovered in a military cemetery and discover a connection with the son of the British Prime Minister, Raymond Asquith. We follow the stories of 2 British soldiers who died in the battle and discover how a German spy allegedly tried to disrupt the BEF during the German counter offensive. We also discover a young German soldier whose body was found 90 years after his death.

Sigue a BEF aquí:https://www.instagram.com/beforama/Adquiere su nueva novela "El llanto del aire" aquí:https://a.co/d/f2o8cwc Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Urne statt Sarg, Flussbestattung statt Friedhof: Rheinland-Pfalz hat sein Bestattungsrecht stark liberalisiert. Befürworter argumentieren mit dem letzten Willen der Verstorbenen, Gegner empören sich über die Störung der Totenruhe. Röther, Christian www.deutschlandfunk.de, Hintergrund

Am 30. November kommt die Service-Citoyen-Initiative zur Abstimmung. Sie sieht vor, dass künftig alle Menschen mit Schweizer Pass einen Dienst «zugunsten der Allgemeinheit und der Umwelt» leisten müssten. Die Auswirkungen auf die Sicherheit, die Gleichstellung und die Wirtschaft sind umstritten. Am 30. November 2025 stimmt die Schweiz über die Volksinitiative «Für eine engagierte Schweiz» ab. Sie wurde vom Verein zur Förderung des Milizengagements eingereicht. Die sogenannte Service-Citoyen-Initiative fordert eine Dienstpflicht für alle jungen Erwachsenen. Künftig wären nebst allen Schweizern auch alle Schweizerinnen zu einem Dienst «zugunsten der Allgemeinheit und der Umwelt» verpflichtet. Fördert diese Initiative die Gleichstellung zwischen Frauen und Männern? Oder leisten die Frauen in Form von Care-Arbeit bereits genug für die Gesellschaft und würden mit einem Bürgerdienst zusätzlich belastet? Doppelt so viele Dienstpflichtige Der von den Initiantinnen und Initianten vorgesehene Bürgerdienst soll entweder im Militär oder in Form eines gleichwertigen und gesetzlich anerkannten Milizdienstes geleistet werden – etwa im Bereich Gesundheit, Bildung oder Umwelt- und Katastrophenschutz. Gemäss Initiativtext müssten die Bestände von Zivilschutz und Armee gesichert sein. Würde diese Initiative die Sicherheit der Schweiz stärken oder schwächen? Die Befürworter betonen, die Initiative stärke den gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt. Die Gegnerinnen warnen derweil vor hohen Kosten und wirtschaftlichen Schäden, die durch die Ausweitung der Dienstpflicht entstehen würden. Mit einem Bürgerdienst wären künftig rund doppelt so viele Menschen dienstpflichtig. Kann die Gesellschaft vom Engagement dieser Menschen profitieren oder gefährdet die Volksinitiative private Arbeitsplätze? Zu diesen Fragen begrüsst Mario Grossniklaus am 21. November 2025 in der «Abstimmungs-Arena» als Befürworterinnen und Befürworter der Vorlage: – Noémie Roten, Präsidentin Initiativkomitee; – Patrick Hässig, Nationalrat GLP/ZH; und – Marc Jost, Nationalrat EVP/BE. Gegen die Vorlage treten an: – Martin Pfister, Bundesrat und Vorsteher VBS; – Balthasar Glättli, Nationalrat Grüne/ZH; und – Michael Götte, Nationalrat SVP/SG.

Zinssorgen sind zum Wochenausklang Gift für die Kurse: Der DAX rutscht auf 23.092 Punkte, ein Minus von 0,8 %, und markiert damit ein Sechs-Monats-Tief, der EuroStoxx50 verliert 1,2 %. Zusätzlich verunsichert der Absturz von Bitcoin, der zeitweise um 7.000 USD auf 80.000 USD fällt und Befürchtungen von Notverkäufen schürt. Schwache US-Industriedaten und ein deutlicher Rückgang des deutschen Einkaufsmanagerindex auf 52,1 Punkte zeigen, dass der erhoffte Aufschwung weiter auf sich warten lässt. Die Ölpreise geben nach, weil ein möglicher US-Friedensplan für die Ukraine und lockere Russland-Sanktionen das Angebot erhöhen könnten. Im Fokus bei den Einzelwerten: Siemens Energy nach Rekordhoch deutlich schwächer, Deutsche Börse fest dank hoher Volatilität, Ubisoft mit Nettobuchungen von 490,8 Mio. Euro, eine KI-Hardware Allianz von OpenAI und Foxconn, ein Bieterrennen um Warner Bros Discovery mit Offerten bis 60 Mrd. USD sowie ein großer Stellenabbau bei Verizon.

Auf der UN-Klimakonferenz in Belém wirbt eine Gruppe von Staaten, darunter Spanien und Frankreich, für eine Abgabe auf Privatjets. Sie könnte dazu beitragen, um nötige Anpassungen an den Klimawandel zu finanzieren, sagen die Befürworter der Idee. Büüsker, Ann-Kathrin www.deutschlandfunk.de, Informationen am Morgen

Wir schauen heute noch mal genauer auf die Gründe für die Beförderung von Eugen Polanski (nicht zu verwechseln mit Daniel Brosinski) und arbeiten uns in unserer Lieblingsform, nämlich natürlich als Ranking, durch die Gerüchteküche der Länderspielpause. Silas zu Werder, oder doch lieber zum HSV? Wind nach Leverkusen, Timber zum BVB und viele mehr. Euer Digitalpädagoge des Vertrauens empfiehlt parallel zur Folge Arc Raiders zu spielen und nebenbei noch auf dem Tablet Welcome to Derry zu gucken. Viel Spaß!

⭐️ Buch „Depression – Wissen was hilft“

Die USA haben ihre Militärpräsenz in der Karibik massiv erhöht. Angeblich geht es um den Kampf gegen Drogenkartelle und deren Schiffe. Aber mit dem massiven Aufgebot steigt die Befürchtung, Trump könnte militärisch in Venezuela eingreifen. Raith, Anne www.deutschlandfunk.de, Informationen am Morgen

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 Auch diese Woche begrüßen wir euch unter dem Motto „3 Mikrofone, 3 Meinungen“ zu den folgenden Themen in dieser Ausgabe:
 ► Krypto & KI: Wie weit geht der Sell-Off?
 ► Softbank verkauft NVIDIA – Die große Chance?
 ► Neuer Trend: Besser als KI
 ► Öl-Aktien mit großem Comeback?
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 Ein wichtiger abschließender Hinweis: Aus rechtlichen Gründen dürfen wir keine individuelle Einzelberatung geben. Unsere geäußerte Meinung stellt keinerlei Aufforderung zum Handeln dar. Sie ist keine Aufforderung zum Kauf oder Verkauf von Wertpapieren.
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 Zum Angebot von 21 Shares: Dieses Dokument stellt keine Anlageberatung und kein Angebot oder keine Aufforderung zum Kauf oder zur Zeichnung von Wertpapieren der 21Shares AG dar. Es handelt sich um Werbung im Sinne der Prospektverordnung (EU) 2017/1129 . Investitionen in die hierin beschriebenen Produkte sind mit Risiken verbunden – einschließlich des möglichen vollständigen Verlusts des eingesetzten Kapitals. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach und möglicherweise schwer zu verstehen ist. Der EU-Basisprospekt 2025 sowie die jeweiligen Endgültigen Bedingungen und das Basisinformationsblatt (KID) sind kostenlos auf der Website des Emittenten www.21shares.com erhältlich und sollten vor einer Anlageentscheidung sorgfältig gelesen werden. Die Billigung des Prospekts ist nicht als Befürwortung der angebotenen Produkte durch die zuständige Behörde zu verstehen. Die in diesem Dokument genannten Wertpapiere dürfen weder in den Vereinigten Staaten noch an oder für Rechnung von „U.S. Persons“ im Sinne der Regulation S des U.S. Securities Act von 1933 angeboten oder verkauft werden. Es erfolgt kein öffentliches Angebot in den USA. Ebenso wenig erfolgt ein Angebot in Kanada, Australien, Japan oder in einer sonstigen Jurisdiktion, in der ein solches Angebot rechtswidrig wäre.

Das Projekt Bostudenzelg soll rund 600 Wohnungen und grosszügige Grünräume schaffen – ein Schritt zu mehr dringend benötigtem bezahlbarem Wohnraum und nachhaltiger Stadtentwicklung, sagen die Befürworter:innen. Kritiker:innen befürchten mehr Verkehr, den Verlust von Lebensqualität und dass die Infrastruktur nicht ausreicht. Wie viel Neubau verträgt Thun? Wird hier Zukunft gebaut – oder ein Stück Stadt zerstört? Auf dem Podium ➡️ Ava Cornelsen, Referendumskomitee ➡️ Reto Stähli, Referendumskomitee und Vorstand Neufeldleist ➡️ Marianna Oesch Bartlome, SP-Stadträtin, Pro-Komitee ➡️ Thomas Bieri, SVP-Stadtrat, Pro-Komitee Moderation: Elias Rüegsegger Zudem als Expertinnen dabei: ➡️ Rahel Schoch, Geschäftsführerin Wohnwerk Futura, verantwortlich für die Gestaltung des Bewerbungsdossiers der IG Bostuden ➡️ Susanne Szentkuti, Stadtplanerin, Co-Leiterin Planungsamt Stadt Thun: Stellt das Projekt vor und beantwortet als Expertin allfällige Fragen. -- https://generationentandem.ch/podium-bostudenzelg

Zu viel Disney? Doch sympathisch? Keine Zeit zu bluten? Wir klopfen PREDATOR: BADLANDS noch einmal ganz genau ab. Und haben uns dafür noch Unterstützung ins Studio geholt. Nadja alias Nerdzika hat sich André und Schröck angeschlossen, um noch einmal auf die Jagd zu gehen. Was macht PREDATOR: BADLANDS? Worum geht's? Wie hat es uns gefallen? Und vor allem: wie sehr oder wie wenig gelungen ist es im Vergleich zu all den anderen Filmen. Zum Beispiel zu THE PREDATOR alias PREDATOR: UPGRADE, den Nadja und Schröck dann auch zuletzt gesehen haben. Oder zu ALIENS VS. PREDATOR 2 alias ALIENS VS. PREDATOR - REQUIEM, in dem alles so übel dunkel ist. Und wo wir schon dabei sind: zu ALIEN VS. PREDATOR, der so alles andere als das ist, was sich alle Anwesenden erhofft haben. Darüber hinaus wird es aber auch um die Welt von PREDATOR: BADLANDS gehen oder die Härte, die Gadgets, die deutsche Synchro, die Befürchtungen der Fans, die eigene Skepsis oder die Musik. Und natürlich auch um all die anderen Filme. Mit viel Liebe für PREY, für PREDATOR 2 und natürlich für den originalen PREDATOR mit Arnold Schwarzenegger. Mit etwas weniger Liebe für PREDATOR: KILLER OF KILLERS. Und mit ein wenig Gegenliebe für PREDATORS oder eben PREDATOR: UPGRADE. Deswegen auch noch mal ein Hinweis: es wird einige SPOILER über die alten Filme geben, bei dem allerneusten haben wir uns in Grenzen gehalten. Wir hoffen aber, Ihr habt trotzdem viel Spaß mit dieser Folge oder dann vielleicht auch mit PREDATOR: BADLANDS, falls Ihr ihn denn sehen wollt. Bleibt so gesund wie gut drauf und habt ein schönes Wochenende. Bis bald. Rocket Beans wird unterstützt von fritz-kola. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Am 30. November entscheidet die Schweizer Stimmbevölkerung über die Erbschaftssteuer-Initiative der Juso: Auf Erbschaften und Schenkungen soll künftig ab einem Freibetrag von 50 Millionen Franken eine Steuer von 50 Prozent erhoben werden. Die Einnahmen sollen in den Klimaschutz investiert werden. Kaum ein Volksbegehren hat bereits vor dem eigentlichen Abstimmungskampf derart für Aufsehen gesorgt wie die Erbschaftssteuer-Initiative der Juso. Befürworterinnen und Gegner streiten über die Folgen der Initiative, welche eine Erbschaftssteuer von 50 Prozent ab einem Freibetrag von 50 Millionen Franken verlangt. Zur Einordnung: Über ein Vermögen von mehr als 50 Millionen Franken verfügen gemäss Botschaft des Bundesrats in der Schweiz etwa 2500 Personen. Die Einnahmen aus der neuen Steuer sollen für die «sozial gerechte Bekämpfung der Klimakrise» verwendet werden. Gerecht oder gefährlich? Die Befürworter betonen, dass mit den reichen Personen die Verantwortlichen zur Kasse gebeten würden: Sie belasteten das Klima stärker als der Durchschnitt, deshalb sei es nur gerecht, wenn diese einen grösseren Beitrag an den Klimaschutz leisten würden. Die Gegnerinnen warnen: Die Initiative würde die stärksten Steuerzahler vertreiben und Familienunternehmen zerstören. Das führe zu Steuerausfällen, die der Mittelstand tragen müsste. Sorgt die Initiative für eine faire und ausreichend finanzierte Klimapolitik? Oder gefährdet sie Schweizer Unternehmen und zerstört Arbeitsplätze? Zu diesen Fragen begrüsst Sandro Brotz am 5. November 2025 als Befürworterinnen und Befürworter der Vorlage: – Mirjam Hostetmann, Präsidentin Juso; – Katharina Prelicz-Huber, Nationalrätin Grüne/ZH; und – David Roth, Vize-Präsident SP. Gegen die Vorlage treten an: – Karin Keller-Sutter, Bundespräsidentin und Vorsteherin EFD; – Peter Spuhler, Verwaltungsratspräsident Stadler Rail; und – Jürg Grossen, Präsident GLP. Politabend mit «Rundschau» und «Arena» SRF macht den Mittwoch ein weiteres Mal zum Politabend. Am 5. November 2025 sendet SRF 1 eine «Abstimmungs-Arena» im Anschluss an die «Rundschau», die sich ebenfalls mit der Erbschaftssteuer-Initiative der Juso befasst. SRF möchte mit diesem Format der Abstimmung noch mehr Sichtbarkeit verschaffen. «Rundschau»: Angriff auf Superreiche – Reportage zur Erbschaftssteuer Selten hat eine Abstimmungsvorlage so polarisiert: die Zukunftsinitiative der Juso. Die «Rundschau» ist unterwegs mit vermögenden Unternehmern und Jungsozialisten. Milliardär Urs Wietlisbach äussert sich erstmals zur Erbschaftssteuer-Initiative der Juso.

Sollen künftig alle jungen Menschen einen Dienst für die Allgemeinheit leisten – Männer wie auch Frauen? GLP-Nationalrat und Befürworter Beat Flach und Mitte-Ständerätin und Gegnerin Andrea Gmür diskutieren über die Service-citoyen-Initiative, über die wir am 30. November abstimmen. Die Service-citoyen-Initiative verlangt, dass das heutige Wehrpflichtsystem abgelöst wird von einem Dienst für die Allgemeinheit. Alle, Männer und Frauen, sollen künftig einen Dienst für die Sicherheit, die Umwelt oder die Gemeinschaft leisten. Dieser Dienst kann in der Armee, im Zivilschutz oder in anderen Bereichen wie Umwelt- und Katastrophenschutz geleistet werden. Die Bestände von Armee und Zivilschutz sollen in der Verfassung garantiert werden. Die Gegnerinnen und Gegner befürchten eine Schwächung der Armee, weil die Wehrpflicht abgeschafft würde. Zudem widerspreche die Initiative dem Zwangsarbeitsverbot nach UNO-Konvention hätte hohe Kosten für den Staat und die Wirtschaft zur Folge. Auch wird eingewendet, dass Frauen heute bereits viel Care-Arbeit leisten und es unfair wäre, ihnen weitere Pflichten aufzuerlegen. Die Abstimmungskontroverse leitet Livia Middendorp.

A long-awaited Aged Care Act is coming into force, four years after a Royal Commission recommended major reforms to the sector. But there are concerns many people will end up paying more for care... - In Australien ist am vergangenen Samstag ein lang erwartetes Gesetz zur Altenpflege in Kraft getreten. Vier Jahre hat es gedauert, bis die Bundesregierung die Reformen, die eine Royal Commission damals empfohlen hatte, endlich umsetzen konnte. Doch in der Bevölkerung herrscht die Befürchtung, dass auf Betroffene am Ende auch höhere Pflegekosten zukommen.

Timothy Schuster hat es nicht leicht: er verliert seinen Job und seine Frau lässt sich von ihm scheiden. Als seine Brieftasche, seine Schlüssel und sein Handy in seinem Zuhause gefunden werden und auch sein Auto noch dort steht, vermuten seine Freunde das Schlimmste. Fünf Tage später bestätigen sich diese Befürchtungen, als Tim gefunden wird. Doch womit niemand gerechnet hat, ist, WIE er gefunden wird. Oder wo. Und Sebastian und Tommy vom Podcast ok.kult erzählen eine Geschichte von einem möglicherweise verfluchten Bild, das zahlreiche Häuser in Flammen aufgehen lässt...Werde Komplizi und unterstütze diese Arbeit! ** Hier findest du alle Rabatte und Promocodes "Darf's ein bisserl Mord sein?" ist der #1 True Crime Podcast aus Österreich. Egal ob deutsche, österreichische oder internationale Fälle: mit Flair, Charme und Wiener Schmäh spricht Franziska Singer über kuriose, ungelöste und längst vergessene Kriminalfälle aus der ganzen Welt. Ob Serienmörder, Entführungen, ein Bankraub oder Femizide - bei Darf's ein bisserl Mord sein? wird jeden Montag je ein Kriminalfall ausführlich behandelt und durchleutet. Von diesen Verbrechen habt ihr bestimmt noch nie gehört! Darf's ein bisserl Mord sein? ist eine Produktion der Wake Word Studios. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olympische Spiele in München: Für manche Wunschtraum, für andere Horrorvorstellung. Ob sich München überhaupt noch mal als Austragungsort ins Rennen bringen soll, darüber können die Münchner Bürgerinnen und Bürger am Wochenende abstimmen. Befürworter sehen darin eine Chance zum Beispiel für wirtschaftliches Wachstum, und auch für ein positives Gemeinschaftserlebnis. Kritiker weisen aber auch daraufhin, dass die Stadtkasse leer ist und dass die Natur zu Schaden kommen könnte. Astrid Uhr fasst Pro und Contra vor der Abstimmung zusammen.

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Die neue SRG-Chefin Susanne Wille steht unter Druck: Anfang Jahr hat die SRG mit dem UKW-Ausstieg hunderttausende Radiohörerinnen und -hörer verloren. Der Spardruck wirkt sich aufs Angebot aus. Und die Abstimmung über die 200-Franken-Initiative steht vor der Tür. Der Einbruch bei den Radios der SRG sind markant: Hundertausende Menschen haben nach dem Ende der UKW-Übertragung zu privaten oder ausländische Radiostationen gewechselt. War der vorzeitige Ausstieg ein Fehler? Und wie reagiert die SRG, wenn das Parlament UKW noch einmal verlängert? Kritische Fragen an Susanne Wille. Ohnehin hatte die neue Generaldirektorin kein geruhsames erstes Amtsjahr. Gleich am ersten Tag als oberste SRG-Chefin stimmte sie Personal und Öffentlichkeit auf ein umfangreiches Sparprogramm ein. Hintergrund sind sinkende Werbeeinnahmen aber vor allem die bevorstehende Senkung der Radio- und Fernseh-Abgabe von 335 auf 300 Franken pro Haushalt und Jahr. Kritiker allerdings nehmen der SRG den Sparwillen immer noch nicht ab – was ist da dran? Und: Wie einschneidend wird der kommende Abbau beim Angebot? Die für die SRG wohl grösste Bedrohung ist die SRG-Initiative «200 Franken sind genug», auch Halbierungsinitiative genannt. In wenigen Monaten stimmen wir ab. Wie kontert Susanne Wille die Argumente der Befürworterinnen und Befürworter? Vor wenigen Monaten hat die SRG – auch im Hinblick auf die Abstimmung – mit den Verlegern eine Vereinbarung getroffen: Sie sieht zahlreiche Zugeständnisse an die privaten Verlage vor. Hat sich die SRG erpressen lassen, wie Kritiker sagen? SRG-Generaldirektorin Susanne Wille ist Gast bei Dominik Meier. Ergänzend zum Tagesgespräch finden Sie jeden Samstag in unserem Kanal die aktuelle Samstagsrundschau.

Seit Jahren will die EU die Verfolgung sexueller Gewalt gegen Kinder erleichtern. Nun wurde erneut ein Kompromiss verworfen. Befürworter wollten Messengerdienste zu Kontrollen verpflichten. Kritiker sprechen von „anlassloser Chatkontrolle“. Loll, Anna www.deutschlandfunk.de, Hintergrund

gefallenDas Bedürfnis, zu gefallen und es anderen immer recht zu machen, kennen viele Frauen. Auch Katrin. Es könnte einfach nur eine nette Eigenschaft netter Menschen sein, wenn es nicht regelmäßig zu Selbstverleugnung und Selbstverlust führen würde. In der Psychologie gibt es dafür sogar einen Begriff: fawning. Statt zu kämpfen, Reißaus zu nehmen oder zu erstarren (fight, flight, freeze), versuchen wir, durch rehäugige Freundlichkeiten die Situation zu entschärfen. Kurzfristig mag das wirksam sein, doch es lohnt sich, einen genauen Blick auf die Ursachen und langfristigen Konsequenzen dieses Verhaltens zu werfen.FaschismusFaschismus ist ein starkes Wort und wird bisweilen als „Nazi-Keule“ benutzt. Doch mit Blick auf die USA sollten wir die Fraglichkeit des Begriffs nochmal überdenken, findet Alexandra. Denn die offene Befürwortung von Gewalt, der Versuch, Demokratie und Rechtsstaatlichkeit auszuhöhlen und eine fast religiöse Verehrung von Technologie waren seit jeher Merkmale faschistischer Systeme. Gerade KI-Ideologien in Verbindung mit dem Wirken rechter politischer Kräfte könnten uns in Schwierigkeiten bringen, wenn wir nicht aktiv ein Mitspracherecht fordern. Bitte und DankeNoch immer kostet die Produktion von anekdotisch evident mehr, als wir derzeit einnehmen. Wenn ihr könnt, werft doch gern ein paar Euro in einen unserer Hüte. DANKE an alle, die schon dabei sind

Der bundesnahe Betrieb Swisscom hat mit einem namhaften Betrag ein Abstimmungskomitee unterstützt, das sich für ein Ja zur elektronischen Identität einsetzt. Das sorgt für Stirnrunzeln – sogar bei einigen Befürwortern der E-ID. Weitere Themen: Derzeit debattiert das Parlament über das Zivildienstgesetz. Mit der Reform soll der Wechsel von der Armee zum Zivildienst erschwert werden. Damit will der Bundesrat der Armee zu mehr Personal verhelfen. Doch braucht es das überhaupt? Schweizer Behörden wie auch viele Firmen sind von US-Techfirmen abhängig und etwa angewiesen auf Microsoft. Deshalb hat das neu gegründete Netzwerk für eine "Souveräne Digitale Schweiz" konkrete Ideen, wie unsere Verwaltung digital unabhängig werden kann.

Die europäischen Unterstützer der Ukraine versuchen mit Begriffen wie „Friedensordnung“, „Friedenssicherung“ und „Friedenstruppen“, ihren eigenen Bevölkerungen einzureden, es ginge ihnen um eine baldige friedliche Lösung des Konflikts mit Russland. Das tatsächliche Frontgeschehen der letzten zweieinhalb Jahre offenbart jedoch die offensichtlich wahren Absichten hinter den „Friedensbemühungen“. Die Formulierungen der Befürworter einer Eskalation des Krieges in derWeiterlesen

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. 1919 LONDON CHURCHILL Z PERSHING Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. 1914 ROYAL FLYING CORPS Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. 1914 BELGIUM Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. 1914 HINDENBERG Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. 1914-1918 US MERCHANT NAVY Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. 1916 VERDUN Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Nick Lloyd's "The Western Front: The History of the Great War, Volume 1" provides a comprehensive narrative of the Great War in Belgium and France from 1914 to 1918. As the first volume of a planned trilogy, this work aims to offer a nuanced understanding of this pivotal theater, moving beyond common myths and focusing on the operational perspective of senior commanders across all involved powers. 1918 JOHN MONASH Here's a summary of the key aspects, figures, and events covered: Lloyd's Ambition and Approach Comprehensive Narrative: Lloyd, a reader in military and imperial history at King's College London, undertook this "big project" to create a grand narrative of the entire Western Front, encompassing the French sector, American sector, and the German story, alongside the often-emphasized British perspective. Focus on Senior Commanders: A primary goal was to view the war from the lens of senior commanders, challenging the traditional portrayal of them as "donkeys or butchers and bunglers." Lloyd aims to help readers appreciate the immense pressures and difficulties these individuals faced, offering a "cooler perspective" on their successes and errors. Trilogy: This book is the first of three volumes; future volumes will cover the Eastern Front and global warfare in the Middle East and Africa. Lloyd emphasizes that while other fronts are mentioned, the Western Front remained the decisive theater where Germany, France, Britain, and America determined the war's outcome. British Involvement and Leadership Initial Reluctance: Britain initially entered the conflict with a limited commitment, deploying only four infantry divisions and one cavalry division as the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a "small army" compared to the French (80 divisions) and Germans (over 100 divisions). This reflected a desire for "limited liability" to the Western Front, contrasting sharply with French demands for more manpower. Early Leaders: H.H. Asquith (Prime Minister) was reportedly distracted by personal affairs at the war's outset. Lord Kitchener (Minister of War) was a professional soldier and hero of the empire, wary of deep British involvement but committed to supporting the French. Field Marshal Sir John French (Commander-in-Chief, BEF) was a Boer War hero who found himself "out of his depth" by 1914, struggling with the war's scale and intensity. During the August 1914 retreat, French considered pulling the BEF out of the line due to immense losses and pressure, a move Kitchener personally intervened to prevent, ordering French to stay and fight. Frencheventually "breaks down" due to losses and pressure and is sent home at the end of 1915. Later Leadership and Strategy: David Lloyd George (Prime Minister from late 1916) is credited as "the prime minister that wins the war" in Britain. He showed great energy in revitalizing British industry and re-equipping the army, despite having poor relations with his top generals. Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig replaced French as Commander-in-Chief of the BEF. Haig and Lloyd George had fundamentally different strategic outlooks, leading to "constant arguments and backstabbing". At the Battle of the Somme (1916), Haig favored a breakthrough strategy, aiming for maneuver and cavalry deployment to defeat the German army. However, his army commander, Rawlinson, advocated a "bite and hold" strategy, focusing on concentrated artillery to smash enemy lines, take ground, then consolidate before repeating, acknowledging that a grand breakthrough was not yet feasible for the largely "green" British army. German Strategy and Commanders Initial Invasion: The German invasion of France and Belgium in 1914 was based on the ambitious Schlieffen Plan, which aimed for a massive attack through Belgium to outflank French defenses and destroy their army in a grand battle of envelopment. Helmuth von Moltke the Younger (Chief of the General Staff) was under immense pressure and altered the Schlieffen Plan, weakening its critical right wing, and ultimately suffered a nervous breakdown by mid-September 1914. Moltke's controversial decision to order General Kluck's First Army to turn southeast instead of enveloping Paris contributed to the failure of the Schlieffen Plan, despite Kluck initially ignoring the order. Kaiser Wilhelm: His character was inconsistent, often described as a "weather vane," and he gradually became a less central figure as Hindenburg and Ludendorff gained influence from 1916. Erich von Falkenhayn (replaces Moltke in 1914) was the architect of the Verdun Offensive (1916). His vision was unique, aiming not for territorial gains but for attrition: to "kill Frenchmen" and exhaust them. Political Interference: Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg often opposed Falkenhayn's desire for unrestricted submarine warfare due to diplomatic concerns (e.g., fear of American entry), illustrating the German military's tendency to prioritize tactical effectiveness over political and strategic issues, which was ultimately "fatal". French Efforts and Leadership Joseph Joffre (Commander of French Forces): Described as a "great hero" of the French army, Joffrepossessed remarkable calmness and an ability to absorb punishment and react quickly. His leadership was crucial in defeating the Schlieffen Plan and counterattacking at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, preventing a German victory. Raymond Poincaré (President of the French Republic): A nationalist deeply involved in military analysis, Poincaré was central to the political efforts to reassert civilian primacy over the army and secure British manpower commitments. General Castelnau (Joffre's chief of staff): A deeply religious man who personally lost three sons in the war, Castelnau exemplifies the human cost and personal horror experienced by some senior commanders, helping to humanize these figures in Lloyd's narrative. Robert Nivelle: An artillery officer who rose rapidly due to his successes at Verdun, Nivelle replaced Joffrein December 1916. He attempted a decisive breakthrough in his Nivelle Offensive in April 1917 with a "formula" for success, but it failed catastrophically due to his being "out of his depth" at the command-in-chief level, leading to French army issues including mutiny. Philippe Pétain: Replaced Nivelle, Pétain became a "savior of France." He was renowned for his deep understanding of battlefield realities and a strong connection with his troops. At Verdun, he innovated by rotating divisions out of the line for rest and recuperation, contrasting with the German practice of fighting units "until basically there's not a lot left". Ferdinand Foch (Supreme Allied Commander from April 1918): Foch is widely regarded as one of the most important generals of the war. He was an energetic and charismatic leader who successfully coordinated the American, British, and French forces in 1918, leading them to victory in the multinational war. His reputation continues to strengthen over time. American Involvement Entry into War: The United States declared war on Germany and Austria in April 1917. General John J. Pershing arrived in Paris in June 1917 to lead the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), despite having only 113,000 men in the army at the time. Rejection of Amalgamation: Pershing steadfastly resisted French and British desires to "amalgamate" American manpower into their existing divisions, insisting that American soldiers fight as an independent army. He argued that the Allies had a poor record of "not killing your own troops". German Miscalculation: Germany severely underestimated how quickly the United States could build and deploy an army, believing it would take years. This misjudgment ultimately contributed to their defeat once the Americans demonstrated their seriousness in 1918. American involvement became "crucial" by 1917, changing the atmosphere. Evolution of Warfare on the Western Front From Movement to Stalemate: The initial German invasion failed to achieve a decisive victory, leading to the establishment of trench warfare after the Battle of the Marne. Realization of No Breakthrough: After the Second Battle of Champagne (1915), Allied and Germancommanders like Joffre and Falkenhayn began to recognize that a "grand shattering breakthrough" was not achievable in the foreseeable future. Constant Adaptation: This realization led to a continuous arms race. As Allied artillery and tactics improved, German defenses evolved from single lines to complex "zones of pill boxes," making progress difficult and bloody. The war became an intense exercise in violence where commanders constantly adapted to a "cauldron of war". Key Battles and Their Significance Battle of the Marne (September 1914): Joffre's successful counterattack forced the Germans to retreat, effectively ending the Schlieffen Plan and leading to the beginning of trench warfare. Second Battle of Champagne (September-October 1915): A major French offensive that, despite immense effort and casualties, failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough, solidifying the understanding that trench deadlock could not be easily broken. Verdun (1916): Falkenhayn's attrition battle, designed to "kill Frenchmen," concentrated immense firepower in a small area, creating a "moonscape effect." While not decisive in destroying the French, it was a moment where "things start to go wrong for Germany," from which she never truly recovers. Somme (1916): A British and French offensive intended to relieve pressure on Verdun, but also driven by Haig's ambition for a breakthrough. The debate between breakthrough and Rawlinson's "bite and hold" strategy highlighted the dilemmas of Western Front warfare. Nivelle Offensive (April 1917): A disastrous French attempt at a breakthrough, which highlighted Nivelle'soverreach and led to significant disillusionment and mutiny within the French army. End of the War and its Legacy German Defeat: Lloyd's book argues that the German army was "falling apart" and "defeated rapidly in 1918" despite the persistent "stab in the back" myth that claimed they were betrayed at home. Armistice Decision: The decision by the Allies not to invade Germany was primarily political, as the British and French were "totally exhausted," while the Americans were "much fresher" and more keen to continue. Lloyd considers the armistice "fair on all sides". Lloyd's work underscores that the Western Front was a complex, multinational struggle marked by evolving strategies, immense pressures on commanders, and profound human costs, which ultimately determined the course of the Great War and cast a long shadow over the 20th century.

Susanne Vincenz-Stauffacher und Benjamin Mühlemann wollen die FDP im Co-Präsidium führen – doch ausgerechnet in der Europafrage sind sie sich uneins. Kann das gut gehen? Halten sie die FDP auf Rechtskurs? Und: Wie sichern sie die zwei Bundesratssitze? Sie kennen sich erst seit anderthalb Jahren und werden im Oktober aller Voraussicht nach gemeinsam eines der schwierigsten politischen Ämter der Schweiz übernehmen. In der «Samstagsrundschau» antworten FDP-Nationalrätin Susanne Vincenz-Stauffacher und Ständerat Benjamin Mühlemann auf kritische Fragen: Wie verhindern sie, dass sie sich auseinanderdividieren lassen? Wie gehen sie mit Differenzen um – schliesslich gilt Mühlemann gerade in der Gesellschaftspolitik als konservativer als Vincenz-Stauffacher. Eine der grössten Herausforderungen wartet bereits am Tag ihrer Wahl durch die FDP-Delegierten auf das Duo: Am selben Tag nämlich legt die FDP ihre Haltung zum Vertragspaket mit der EU fest. Vincenz-Stauffacher ist eine Befürworterin, Mühlemann hat Bedenken wegen der Souveränität – eine oder einer der beiden also wird als «Verlierer» ins Co-Präsidium starten. Kommt das gut? Die FDP steht zurzeit mit dem Rücken zur Wand. Bei den letzten nationalen Wahlen lag sie nur noch 0,2 Prozentpunkte vor der Mitte-Partei, der Trend bei den kantonalen Wahlen seither war mehrheitlich negativ – kurz: Die Wahlen in zwei Jahren werden entscheidend sein, auch für den zweiten Bundesratssitz der FDP. Wie will das künftige Führungsduo die Partei wieder auf die Siegerstrasse führen? Hat sich der pointierte Rechtskurs des bisherigen Präsidenten Thierry Burkart tatsächlich bewährt? Susanne Vincenz-Stauffacher und Benjamin Mühlemann sind zu Gast bei Dominik Meier. Ergänzend zum «Tagesgespräch» finden Sie jeden Samstag in unserem Kanal die aktuelle «Samstagsrundschau».

Die Bundesregierung weist Befürchtungen einer tiefgreifenden Deindustrialisierung in Deutschland zurück. In ihrer Antwort auf eine Kleine Anfrage betont sie, dass das jüngste EU-US-Zollabkommen keine gravierenden Nachteile für die deutsche Industrie bringe. Dennoch bleiben Fragen nach milliardenschweren Energieimporten und Investitionen in die USA offen.